Greek Economy

Using the growth accounting model proposed by Edward F. Denison in the 1960s, this work analyzes the sources of growth in the postwar Greek economy. The Greek experience is contrasted with that of other countries, and general as well as country-specific causes for the recent slowdown in productivity growth are systematically analyzed. Tsaliki contrasts the 1950-1973 period, in which the growth of output was equally attributable to total input factor and output per unit, with the 1973-1985 period, in which growth of productivity became negative, and the contribution of capital diminished significantly while that of labor reached record high levels. Explanations for these patterns are proposed and compared with those of other countries.

The work begins with an introductory chapter that compares Greece's growth rate of output with that of other industrial nations and presents the structural characteristics of the postwar Greek economy. The following chapters then lay out the theoretical foundations of the author's model of the economy and present the income shares corresponding to factors of production, labor input, and adjustments needed to derive an accurate estimate of growth. Capital and its contribution to growth is examined by separating its different constituent components, and the importance of domestic, foreign, and public investment is analyzed. The contribution of land, dwellings, and international assets is also discussed, and the summary findings regarding the factors of contribution to the growth rate are thoroughly explained. The work concludes with analyses of various effects on the growth rate of output per unit of input, as well as comparisons of the Greek experience to the U.S. economy. This volume will be a useful tool for scholars and courses in international and economic development, economic policy and theory, and comparative economic systems. It will also serve as a valuable resource for public and academic library collections.

Persefoni V. Tsaliki is adjunct assistant professor of economics and statistics at the New York University. She received her PhD from the New School for Social Research.