Final answer:
The likely cause of the productivity problem in the 1970s that does not fit is high saving rates, as higher savings can lead to more investments, not productivity issues. Other options, like increased government regulation, slowed investment spending, and higher energy prices, could have contributed to the productivity slump.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks about the likely causes of the productivity problem in the 1970s. Analyzing the options provides insight into the economic conditions of that time. The main answer to the question, which of the following was not one of the likely causes of the productivity problem in the 1970s, is a) High saving rates. High saving rates typically do not cause productivity issues and, in fact, can contribute to higher investment in the economy. On the other hand, an increase in government regulation, a slowdown in investment spending, and the increase in energy prices in the 1970s were all factors that likely contributed to productivity problems. These factors can lead to higher production costs, lower willingness or ability to invest in new technologies or processes, and therefore, potentially slow productivity growth.In conclusion, high saving rates were unlikely to cause productivity issues, whereas the other factors listed were indeed likely contributors to the productivity slowdown experienced during the 1970s.