John Morrow

Curriculum Vitae

Working Papers

Abstract. We present improved, asymptotically valid values used in testing for a particular distribution of First Significant Digits known as Benford’s Law. We also derive new tests values for heuristic tests used in the literature and investigate small sample properties of the tests. A simple method is presented by which all continuous distributions may be transformed to satisfy Benford’s law with arbitrary precision and induce scale invariance, one of the sought after properties for rules underlying Benford’s Law in the literature. This allows application of Benford tests to arbitrary samples, a hurdle to current empirical work. Put together, our results yield a partial classification of which distributions will satisfy Benford’s law as well as tests for Benford’s Law on a broader class of data.

Abstract. Is Selection a source of Gains from Trade distinct from Comparative Advantage and Scale Effects? If so, why? Examining heterogeneous firm models, we find the answer depends on the demand structure, and hence the channel through which selection works. Under the linear demand system of Melitz and Ottaviano (2005), Selection is a new manifestation of traditional Scale Effects. Selection works through the product market channel and is not a novel source of gains. In Melitz (2003), Selection works through the labor market channel and is a novel gain, distinct from Scale Effects. This novelty is a consequence of separable preferences. Within separable preferences, CES is unique in ensuring the market optimally adjusts to trade frictions yielding first best Selection Effects. In contrast, Selection need not be optimal or even welfare-improving as for linear demand systems or when "taste for variety" is considered. Our results highlight the role of demand and trade costs in determining when Selection Effects are novel, optimal and "anti-variety".

Abstract. There have been few attempts to empirically explain the pursuit of short term relationships and sex in a formal context. Previous work has lamented the paucity of empirical studies which utilize incentive driven behavior to draw conclusions and recommend policy. We provide an empirical approach derived from a game theoretic model of social interaction and apply it to a population of high interest. Specifically, we apply the approach to a population of sexually active men who have sex with men (MSM) in a large metropolitan area and derive qualitative conclusions regarding how individuals behave in the marketplace for sex.

Other Projects

Course Papers