Knickerbocker, H. E.

This thesis presents a theoretical behavioral model that deals with the expansionary phase of the business cycle. Its purpose was to provide a plausible explanation for growth out of recession. In this model, expansionary output is directly related to investment, saving, and the expected returns to capital. Moreover, it is assumed that capital formation is inversely related to the interest rate, which serves as the independent variable with respect to investment, production, saving, and expected returns. In addition, the basic model is linked to the combined influence of fiscal and monetary policy through the use of a coefficient. This coefficient can alter the fundamental dynamic of the growth path. Finally, the four basic non-linear curves that compose the behavioral model are compared to curves suggested by scatter diagrams. In conclusion, there seems to be some conformity of statistical reality to the non-linear relationships described by the behavioral model, as well as general agreement with a large body of existent theory.