Intermediate Macroeconomics

REVISED

Winter 2012 quarter

Faculty

Tom Womeldorff economics

Fields of Study

economics, government and political economy

Preparatory for studies or careers in

economics, political economy, history, public administration, and business.

Prerequisites

(1) principles of macroeconomics AND (2a) principles of microeconomics or (2b) other economic theory.

Description

This program is designed for students who are interested in critically studying economics beyond the introductory level. In the mornings, we will complete the equivalent of textbook intermediate macroeconomics which focuses primarily on the determinants of economic growth, employment rates, inflation and income distribution.  We will assess the "appropriate" roles for the federal government in the economy (e.g., determining the right fiscal and monetary policy mix, setting exchange rates and eliminating/creating trade barriers).  A standard intermediate macroeconomics textbook and workbook will be used. While there is no specific math prerequisite, extending our math skills will be an objective of the program. 

In the process, we will critically assess the limits of macroeconomic theory. For example, does the theory adequately consider income distribution effects of policy options?  Do macroeconomic prescriptions contribute to gender inequalities?  To what extent do ideological predispositions intersect with the science of economics, influencing prescriptions about the size of the money supply or the judged appropriateness of tax cuts?

In afternoon seminars, we will survey areas of applied macroeconomics and gain a familiarity with the various schools of thought (i.e., Keynesian, Post-Keynesian, Monetarist, Austrian and Marxian approaches). Our readings will be chosen from literature written by economists for other economists as represented in academic journals such as the Journal of Economic Literature. Students will be involved in selecting some of the readings.

Program activities will include lectures, workshops, exams, short research papers, and seminar.

Location

Olympia

Online Learning

Enhanced Online Learning

Books

Greener Store

Offered During

Day

Program Revisions