Economics

This course introduces students to the basic ideas and applications of game theory. This course begins with expected utility theory, and then introduces the fundamental ideas of game theory: strategic-form games, Nash equilibrium, games with incomplete information, extensive-form games, sequential equilibrium, repeated games, as well as games with communication.

Prerequisite: Microeconomics, Mathematics for Economics, Introduction to Statistics, Calculus

This course offers a study of time series analysis with a view towards model-based predictions. It uses modeling and computational methodology applicable to a wide range of scientific fields, including engineering, environmental sciences, biochemistry, and natural language processing, but it focuses on applications for economics and finance, such as the extraction of stochastic business cycles and volatility prediction using daily and intraday high-frequency data.

Basic skills in statistics and computing with R are a prerequisite. Previous coursework in econometric analysis of linear time series is recommended.

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 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).

This course discusses the increasing connections and mobilities of goods (like grains, oil, cars, appliances, parts & components), services (like banking, education, tourism), money and finance, labor, technology, ideas and information. It discusses their trends and patterns and critically examines the role of various factors such as international and regional institutions, media and ICT, infrastructure and distribution networks, state intervention, and private sector involvement. It also assesses the social, economic, political and environmental impacts of increasing interconnectedness and mobilities.