Abstract
Martin Kohli (2002) "Wassily Leontief and the Bureau of Labor
Statistics, 1941-54."
A number of different interpretations of the development of
input-output analysis exist. Some observers have argued that the Bureau
of Labor Statistics merely tabulated data in accordance with Wassily
Leontief's theories. This paper evaluates such claims by examining the
classifications and definitions used by Leontief and the Bureau in the
early tables. Such an examination leads to the conclusion that the
Bureau made a number of significant refinements to Leontief's original
framework. The Bureau-modified table proved to be a valuable tool for
assessing the accuracy of the GNP aggregates, and this prompted the
Budget Bureau to institutionalize the making of input-output tables.
Furthermore, the Bureau's work with Leontief had a number of effects on
the agency itself. As a result of this work, the Bureau treated some of
its price, quantity, and value measurements as part of a new framework;a
consistent system of national economic accounts;and this revealed
inadequacies in the statistical design of at least one program. To this
day, statistical agencies continue to try to develop consistent measures
of prices and quantities, using the framework pioneered by Leontief.
Last Modified Date: March 19, 2003
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