When less might actually mean more

Editor's note: The nation's economic growth slowed in the third quarter to its weakest pace in five and a half years. But markets were prepared for that result and reacted calmly. We asked domestic and foreign economists for their views and found a surprising degree of convergence: growth next year is set to slow. They also agreed that lower growth is not in itself a problem, as long as enough jobs are created, incomes keep rising and the government continues to pursue structural reforms. Here are their comments.

Q1 Given the third-quarter figures, do you think the Chinese economy can grow by 7.5 percent this year? If yes, why? If not, is it a big problem?

Q2 Should China lower its GDP growth target next year? What is the appropriate rate?