Concept

Rationale for the Upward-Sloping Wage-Setting Curve

The upward slope of the wage-setting (WS) curve is explained by the changing dynamics of the labor market as employment levels vary. When aggregate employment is high, unemployment is consequently low, creating a 'tight' labor market. In this environment, workers have better alternative job opportunities, which intensifies competition among firms for labor. To attract and motivate workers to exert the required effort, firms must offer a higher real wage. Conversely, in a 'loose' labor market with high unemployment, workers' outside options are limited, allowing firms to secure effort at a lower real wage.

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Updated 2026-01-15

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