Optimal lockdowns

David J. Hebert () and Michael D. Curry ()
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David J. Hebert: Aquinas College
Michael D. Curry: Aquinas College

Public Choice, 2022, vol. 193, issue 3, No 8, 263-274

Abstract: Abstract This paper provides a framework for understanding optimal lockdowns and makes three contributions. First, it theoretically analyzes lockdown policies and argues that policy makers systematically enact too strict lockdowns because their incentives are misaligned with achieving desired ends and they cannot adapt to changing circumstances. Second, it provides a benchmark to determine how strongly policy makers in different locations should respond to COVID-19. Finally, it provides a framework for understanding how, when, and why lockdown policy is expected to change.

Keywords: COVID-19; Optimal policy; Planners’ problem; Adaptability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D78 D80 I18 I31 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1007/s11127-022-00992-4

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