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Revisiting the ‘invisible hand’ hypothesis: a comparative study between Bulgaria and Germany

Author

Listed:
  • Nadezhda GESHEVA

    (Experian, Bulgaria)

  • Aleksandar VASILEV

    (American University, Bulgaria)

Abstract

This paper examines Adam Smith’s concept of an Invisible Hand of the market in light of the underlying assumptions for the theory to hold. Furthermore, the study focuses on Total Factor Productivity as a measure of efficiency of resource allocation, and employs growth accounting in Bulgaria relative to a frontier country (Germany), and tries to explain the Total Factor Productivity gap with the difference in the quality of institutions and economic freedom performance (where the latter is based on the Freedom Index Indicators). Satisfactory results have been obtained, favouring the hypothesis that freer markets perform better and a “catching up” effect of Bulgaria’s Total Factor Productivity levels towards those of Germany has been observed. Finally, the study provides policy recommendations facilitating the Invisible Hand Process in Bulgaria for a more rapid convergence towards Germany’s productivity levels.

Suggested Citation

  • Nadezhda GESHEVA & Aleksandar VASILEV, 2017. "Revisiting the ‘invisible hand’ hypothesis: a comparative study between Bulgaria and Germany," Eastern Journal of European Studies, Centre for European Studies, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, vol. 8, pages 45-77, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:jes:journl:y:2017:v:8:p:45-77
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Invisible Hand of the Market; Free Market Economy; Total Factor Productivity; convergence;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C82 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - Methodology for Collecting, Estimating, and Organizing Macroeconomic Data; Data Access
    • O11 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Macroeconomic Analyses of Economic Development

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