Suppose the economy is in long-run equilibrium. Then because of corporate scandal, in- ternational tensions, and loss of confidence in policymakers, people become pessimistic regarding the future and retain that level of pessimism for some time. Which curve shifts and in which direction? (a) aggregate demand shifts right (b) aggregate demand shifts left (c) aggregate supply shifts right (d) aggregate supply shifts left

The answer is: b

Explanation:

In long-run equilibrium, the long run aggregate demand curve and aggregate supply curve intersect where the marginal revenue (revenue derived from selling an additional unit) and marginal cost (cost incurred from producing) an additional unit) are equal.  In the long-run equilibrium, this intersection occurs at the lowest point of the long-run average total cost curve (curve depicting the average cost per unit of production).

Holding all else constant, short run changes in the economy would not change the potential output levels. The long-run aggregate supply curve would remain fixed at the potential level of output. However, these changes: international tensions, corporate scandals and loss of confidence in policymakers would cause shifts in the aggregate demand curve since demand would be adversely affected.

Consumer confidence is the perspective or outlook that consumers have on the state of the economy. The destabilising factors given in this scenario would raise the levels of uncertainty and perceived risk, reducing the confidence levels of consumers and ultimately resulting in reduced demand. In long-run equilibrium, when demand is reduced, it is indicated by a leftward shift in the aggregate demand curve.

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