Document Type
Presentation
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
Explication of machine learning algorithms and their usefulness for economic research. The prediction algorithms of Random Forest, Gradient Boost Machines, Neural Networks and Support Vector Machines are built from simple steps applied at large scale to generate surprisingly precise nonlinear estimates. Although useful for processing and interpreting new forms of data, their application to economics research is limited because they do not provide readily interpretable evidence of the causes of outcomes.
Rights
© 2026 by John Luke Gallup. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Persistent Identifier
https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/44688
Citation Details
Gallup, John Luke, "Machine Learning for Economists" (2026). Economics Faculty Publications and Presentations. 194.
https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/44688
Description
Lecture slides