The recession that began in 2008 has lifted in the United States, many economists are saying, though it is lingering in some parts of the world.

You are an economic consultant to a manufacturer. Before making new hires and investing in infrastructure, your employer wants firm evidence. She wants to know just what the definition of a recession is in the first place so that she can have a better sense of how to gauge if and when the recession is indeed lifting, and she wants to know what the best course of action will be.

Please review recent numbers of the －Wall Street Journal－ relevant story that you can cite, and work it into your paper.  Prepare a 500-word white paper for your client that takes up these issues:

1. What is the formal definition of a recession? What is the source of that definition? Have we been in one, or have we been in a depression, or have we been in neither condition?

2. In your view, should your client begin investing now, or curtail investment and wait for safer times?

3. What single economic concept best describes the approach you are advocating? Remember, your advice is valued precisely because you have formal training in economics. Your client does not, but she has a very strong interest in all things concerning the success of her business and the possibility of failure.

Content Checklist:
˜ Strong ing statement identifying problem and giving a hint of the solution?
˜ Adequate supporting arguments?
˜ Good use of data?
˜ Appropriate economic concept present, clearly stated, and clearly explained?