An examination of the logic of constrained choice, with a focus on the economic behavior of individuals and organizations. The mechanics of the price system are analyzed in terms of demand (utility) and supply (cost). The characteristics of alternative market structures, from pure competition to monopoly, are derived and evaluated. The conditions under which markets allocate resources efficiently are worked out, and several causes of market failure are examined. Simple graphical and mathematical methods (high-school level of difficulty) are developed, their use reinforced by a variety of applications. Questions of microeconomic analysis and policy raised by current events are debated. Econ. 101 and 102 may be taken in either order.

This introductory course uses simple economic concepts to examine global and international issues of current and enduring interest. (Public issues in the U.S. are addressed in the fall semester companion course ECON 110). The aim of this course is to help students with little or no economics background to understand the economic dimensions of important social and political issues of the world. Topics will be drawn from a pool that includes the WTO and trade liberalization; European integration; regionalism (NAFTA, FTAA etc.); global warming, deforestation and other environmental issues; the role of multinational corporations and multilateral agencies such as the World Bank and IMF; the AIDS crisis in Africa; poverty and hunger; inequality within and between nations; the debt and currency crises of Latin America and East Asia; the recent economic stagnation of Japan; the transition from planning to markets in Eastern Europe and former Soviet Republics. The discussion of each topic will begin with a general review using materials from the popular media. This will be followed by a more detailed economic analysis using micro and macro economic concepts. Relevant theoretical models and principles will be introduced during the discussion. In addition to short essays, class presentations and team projects, students will be asked to maintain a weekly journal of relevant current events that are covered in the international media.

This course analyzes the origins, policies and dynamics of China's economic transition since 1978. Selected aspects of China's gradualist reform will be studied in depth and related to the experiences of other transition economies. An analytic framework will be developed to critically examine the future challenges facing China as an emerging economy with regard to state capability, financial systems, labor markets and social security, the inter-regional development gap and relations with the outside world. Prerequisite: Some previous knowledge of introductory economics or Chinese history.

This course examines labor economics and discrimination from a critical and historical perspective. The course begins with an investigation of historical and methodological issues regarding racism and gender inequality and the study of (the intersections of) race, class, and gender. The strengths and weaknesses of mainstream and alternative approaches to wage and employment determination are examined. Various theoretical explanations of wage and employment differentials will be surveyed, including Becker's 'economics of discrimination', human capital theory, dual economy, segmented labor markets, efficiency wage theory, culture of poverty, and Marxian competition. Primary focus will be on the African American experience, but theories will also be evaluated as both explanations of wage and employment differentials in general and gender inequality in particular. Current policy debates will also be investigated.

2 credits. This required seminar meets alternate Thursdays exposes juniors to the rigors and intricacies of original research in economics. The purpose of the course is to familiarize students with the economics literature and research methods, and to provide them with an opportunity to explore potential topics for their senior projects. Student interests will determine the topics for each semester. All students will read a selected research article every week. Weekly seminars will be held in a conference format in which students will take turns presenting and critiquing papers of their choice. Each student will be expected to prepare a written report of the articles he or she presents. Students will also be given opportunities to lead the discussions. Efforts will be made to attend relevant academic and research seminars in the area. Prerequisites: Junior status, moderated in Economics (required). Moderated sophomores and seniors may be admitted with permission of the Instructor, subject to enrollment limit.

This course covers industrial organization, from traditional ideas to ideas on the frontier of economic research. The traditional literature addresses the industrial structure of the US economy and antitrust policy, monopolies, and anti-competitive behavior. More recent work examines the structure of firms, markets and organizations. Other topics include vertical integration and coordination, product differentiation and patents, bilateral bargaining and the market for lemons, auction and bidding, and theories of advertising. The theory is examined in the context of real world situations, both current and historical. Prerequisite: ECON 202.