A note on the Carlson-Parkin method of quantifying qualitative data

Qualitative surveys enjoy huge popularity among business cycle analysts and research institutes since they provide fast information on the stance of the economy. However, in order to derive quantitative statements researchers have to rely on assumptions about the relation between quantitative and qualitative information. This paper introduces a micro data set that combines individual quantitative and qualitative information and presents first tests of common assumptions. It suggests a modifcation of the Carlson and Parkin (1975) method and a solution to the zero response problem.