Question

Last month unemployment fell to 4 percent, its lowest level in years. The economy is growing rapidly, but consumer prices have risen at an annual rate of 10 percent during the last six months. Which of the following policies would be most appropriate under these circumstances?A reduction in taxes.An increase in taxes.An increase in both government spending and taxes.An increase in government spending.

Answer 1

Answer:

An increase in taxes.

Explanation:

A rise in the prices is indications that the inflation rate is high.  Policymakers should intervene by introducing contractionary measures that will counter the rising inflation. Fiscal policy measures, such as increasing taxes, reduce inflationary pressures without the risk of causing a recession.

Increase taxes reduces the purchasing power of businesses and individuals, thereby reducing the aggregate demand.  A reduction in aggregated demand lowers production levels, which results in low inflation but increases the unemployment rate.