Does setting inflation targets cloud our view of the economy? | Robert Shiller

They aim to promote stability, but might actually increase uncertainty about real things like home values or investments

In many countries, inflation has become so low and stable in recent decades that it appears to have faded into the woodwork. Whereas galloping inflation was once widely viewed as the number one economic problem, today most people - at least in the developed countries - hardly ever talk about it or even pay attention to it. But "silent inflation" still has subtle effects on our judgment, and it may still lead to some consequential mistakes.

Since New Zealand's central bank set the first example in 1989, monetary authorities around the world have increasingly pursued a policy of setting inflation targets (or target ranges) that are substantially above zero. That is, policymakers plan to have inflation, but steady inflation. What used to be a dirty word is now announced publicly, and moderation is enforced.

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