Foundations of Economics

Description

Neoclassical economic theory provides powerful tools for understanding most issues we face today as communities and nations as well as globally. This does not mean there is agreement among economists about what the theory tells us or what policies are appropriate. At the center of debates among economists, and in society as a whole, is the appropriate balance between relying on the marketplace and the government to solve economic problems. This question will be at the center of our inquiry.

This program is designed to provide a broad and in-depth introduction to economic theory in the context of current economic issues. We will study introduction to micro- and macroeconomics with close attention to how these theories have evolved over time, and how they are applied across a broad spectrum of issues. We will critically assess both the usefulness and limitations of economic theories.

We will study economics in the context of the major issues at the time the program is offered. Examples of previous foci include the environment and the global financial crisis.