Syllabus

Title
2372 Economic Policy
Instructors
Kentaro Asai, PhD
Contact details
Type
PI
Weekly hours
2
Language of instruction
Englisch
Registration
09/11/24 to 09/29/24
Registration via LPIS
Notes to the course
Subject(s) Bachelor Programs
Dates
Day Date Time Room
Wednesday 10/02/24 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM D5.1.004
Wednesday 10/23/24 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM D5.1.004
Wednesday 10/30/24 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM D5.1.004
Wednesday 11/06/24 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM D5.1.004
Wednesday 11/13/24 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM D5.1.004
Wednesday 11/20/24 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM D5.1.004
Wednesday 11/27/24 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM D5.1.004
Wednesday 12/04/24 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM D5.1.004
Wednesday 12/11/24 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM D5.1.004
Wednesday 12/18/24 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM D5.1.004
Wednesday 01/15/25 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM TC.1.02
Monday 01/20/25 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM TC.1.02
Contents

This course guides students in understanding the foundations of economic policy analysis. It first introduces key concepts in public economics, such as the fundamental theorems of welfare economics, public goods, externalities, moral hazard, adverse selection, tax incidence, and tax efficiency. We then discuss inefficiencies associated with private markets and possible economic policy solutions. Next, we introduce a theoretical analysis of the effects of taxation. We analyze the rationales behind public unemployment insurance, health insurance, and pensions. Finally, we apply theoretical knowledge to a discussion of some important economic policy questions: climate change, population aging, and income inequalities.

Learning outcomes

Students will:

  • Learn about key concepts and theoretical tools of economic policy analysis
  • Understand the importance of the efficiency-equity trade-off
  • Apply theoretical knowledge in discussions on the most pressing economic policy issues
Attendance requirements

Attendance is mandatory. Students may have a maximum of 2 absences.

Teaching/learning method(s)

Teaching methods include lectures, class discussions, interactive tasks, and written individual assignments.

Assessment

The assessment is based on:

  • Two problem sets: 30%
  • Quizzes: 20%
  • Exam: 50%
  • Bonus points for in-class participation: 5%

Please note: Bonus points will be given only to those who have received positive points from other evaluations!

Grading Scale:

  • 100% - 90% = Excellent
  • 89% - 80% = Good
  • 79% - 65% = Satisfactory
  • 64% - 51% = Sufficient
  • 50% - 0% = Fail
Readings

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Last edited: 2024-09-17



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