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Sunk Costs And Resource Mobility: Implications For Economic And Policy Analysis

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  • Bradford L. BARHAM

  • Jean-Paul CHAVAS

Abstract

The implications of sunk costs for many key questions in agricultural economics have yet to be explored. This paper uses a dynamic model of investment behavior to explore how sunk costs can shape market outcomes in ways that might not match predictions of standard competitive models. Applying the model to several key issues in agricultural markets and international trade offers new perspectives that challenge conventional wisdoms. Institutional and policy innovations are also examined for their potential to improve welfare outcomes when sunk costs impede factor mobility.

Suggested Citation

  • Bradford L. BARHAM & Jean-Paul CHAVAS, 1997. "Sunk Costs And Resource Mobility: Implications For Economic And Policy Analysis," Staff Papers 410, University of Wisconsin Madison, AAE.
    • Handle: RePEc:wop:wiaesp:410
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Wesseler, J. & Weichert, M., 1999. "Der Wert zusätzlicher Informationen bei Investitionsentscheidungen mit einem hohen Grad an Irreversibilität," Proceedings “Schriften der Gesellschaft für Wirtschafts- und Sozialwissenschaften des Landbaues e.V.”, German Association of Agricultural Economists (GEWISOLA), vol. 35.

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