Contributions of Howard S. Ellis to the Controversy concerning Economic Growth: 1940–1955

Abstract

This paper examines ideas of Howard S. Ellis, a former president of the American Economic Association, regarding debates of the 1940s and 1950s concerning policies that could affect economic growth. I compare Ellis's ideas with those of Keynesians such as Alvin Hansen, who emphasized using expansionary fiscal policy, and Leon Keyserling who emphasized structural reform. I then compare Ellis's views with recent mainstream thinking as reflected in Economic Reports to the President. Ellis's views concerning economic growth appear to be more in line with views of mainstream economists who have served on recent CEAs than with views of Keynesian economists of his day. (JEL Categories: B22, B3, E5)