Measuring the Impact of American Citizens Studying Abroad, Institutional Reform and American Values on United States Trade Performance

Abstract

新制度學派指出文化價值與制度變遷是影響組織經濟成就的關鍵因素，本文以新制度學派為架構，Hofstede文化構面為理論基礎，透過計量模型的建立，成功的以量化分析法衡量貿易自由化對美國進出口貿易所造成的影響；價值獨立變數可以透過Hofstede 的文化構面和施正屏博士所建立的計量模型來評估美國自1990年到2004年與全球六大區域、三十個主要貿易國間成就。實證結果顯示留學生多寡顯著影響美國進出口貿易。文化構面指標，包括：權力距離、個人主義、規避不確定性程度等變數均是影響美國對外貿易的重要因素，本文並以區域虛擬變數檢定區域貿易表現的差異。

Based on the theory of the neo-institutional school states that institution and institutional changes affect economic performance, this study examines the impact of culture and American values of free trade on United States' economic performance by building an econometric model. Thus, the value independent variables could be measured by this new approach. The approach taken is Cultural dimensions defined by Hofstede and an econometric model was first build by Dr. Shih. The U.S trade with six regions and thirty countries for the period of 1990 to 2004 were examined. Significant results indicate countries that host American students are prime locations of U.S. import and export. Other significant indicators of economic performance are WTO membership, population and official language. A regional study pinpoints areas where more focus is needed by sending U.S. students to study and the effect of regional trade agreements on U.S. trade.