English

To think and act strategically, one needs to evaluate the effect of one's actions on the actions of others. As most economic decisions are strategic, such as the decision to lower a price or introduce a new tax, economics, if it is to avoid simplistic models, requires a theoretical framework capable of illuminating strategic behavior. This course offers a comprehensive, critical introduction to the theory which purports, not only to satisfy this theoretical need, but also potentially to unify the social sciences: game theory. After examining important concepts of game theory, the unit investigates the repercussions for the theory of bargaining and for the evolution of social institutions.

This course teaches the art of writing narrative. It allows students to explore their creative side and includes perspectives on narratological concepts such as point of view, characterization, conflict, and writing feeling. Readings include contemporary British and American writers with a specific eye to their craft and technique in the art of writing.

The course discusses important issues in contemporary Japanese society, fostering a critical stance towards discourses around Japanese society. The course covers topics such as the low birthrate and aging society; rural and urban Japan; gender, sex, marriage, childbirth, and family; rituals, festivals, and traditions; education and media; the military, police and the prison system, and work and leisure. 

This course presents the major concepts, theories, and results in modern economics through an overview of the work of a selection of economics Nobel Prize and Leontief Prize recipients. Topics include Keynesianism; libertarianism; neoclassical macroeconomics; neo-Keynesian macroeconomics; foundations of microeconomics; game theory; behavioral microeconomics; microeconomics of organizations and contracts; public economics; econometrics; finance; and economics and society (institutions, development, well-being, environment).