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The political economy of COVID‐19

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  • Scott Kaplan
  • Jacob Lefler
  • David Zilberman

Abstract

We assess the economic and health costs of COVID and policy responses to COVID. Based on initial estimates of health and economic costs, social distancing policies were justified, but these estimates now seem too high because of learning by doing. Significant differences in mortality rates across US states and countries can be explained by population density, climate, exposure, and policy. Regions that were able to contain the disease early have seen fewer deaths and lower economic losses. Some developing countries initially imposed drastic, costly measures, perhaps motivated by political economy. We also find that there has been underinvestment in prevention and mitigation that could have reduced the cost of adaptation and suggest that there is a lesson for climate change policies.

Suggested Citation

  • Scott Kaplan & Jacob Lefler & David Zilberman, 2022. "The political economy of COVID‐19," Applied Economic Perspectives and Policy, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 44(1), pages 477-488, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:apecpp:v:44:y:2022:i:1:p:477-488
    DOI: 10.1002/aepp.13164
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Marson, Marta & Migheli, Matteo & Saccone, Donatella, 2022. "Free to Die: Economic Freedoms and Influenza Mortality," Department of Economics and Statistics Cognetti de Martiis. Working Papers 202210, University of Turin.
    2. Ruohan Wu, 2022. "Transitioning Economic Statuses of Appalachian Counties during COVID-19," Atlantic Economic Journal, Springer;International Atlantic Economic Society, vol. 50(3), pages 147-158, December.

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