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Understanding Regulatory Environments and their Impact on Economic Change

Author

Listed:
  • Harvey James

    (University of Missouri)

  • Derek Johnson

    (University of Connecticut)

Abstract

We propose a framework for evaluating the effectiveness of regulatory activity based on the distinctions among boundary, conduct, and attribute regulation. The standard we use to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of regulations creating boundaries, regulating conduct, and defining attributes is whether the regulations are market-enhancing or market-debilitating. We argue that this framework provides a consistent means by which economists and policy observers can evaluate the impact and effectiveness of a wide variety of regulatory initiatives, including antitrust actions, as well as economic and social regulations. To illustrate the utility of our framework, we evaluate recent deregulatory efforts in the telecommunications industry.

Suggested Citation

  • Harvey James & Derek Johnson, 2002. "Understanding Regulatory Environments and their Impact on Economic Change," Industrial Organization 0202001, University Library of Munich, Germany.
  • Handle: RePEc:wpa:wuwpio:0202001
    Note: Type of Document - Microsoft Word; prepared on IBM PC; to print on HP; pages: 24; figures: 2. 1 Figure and 1 table, included in file
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Regulation; antitrust; economic analysis; institutions; telecommunications;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L51 - Industrial Organization - - Regulation and Industrial Policy - - - Economics of Regulation

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