In the 1980s, there were occasions when it made sense to say, 'it is too difficult to maximize the likelihood function, and besides if we do, it will blow our model out of the water.
Thomas J. SargentI think you've got to watch out for anybody in high school who says he wants to become an economist.
Thomas J. SargentKeynes was a very good economist. He was brilliant. He had wonderful insights. His work has inspired me many times.
Thomas J. SargentThe first and most optimistic response was complete rational expectations econometrics. A rational expectations equilibrium is a likelihood function. Maximize it.
Thomas J. Sargent