ECON 302-01, Intermediate Macroeconomics, Fall 2006

Abstract

This course is a general survey of the major theoretical tools and key policy issues concerning the field of MACRO- ECONOMCS, i.e. the aggregate operation of the economy and (macroeconomic) policy. Key questions raised in the course include: What is macroeconomics? (The subject matter of macroeconomics) What is the analytical tool kit macroeconomists apply? Why are people unemployed (even when the economy is booming)? Why are there recessions, and what causes them? Can the government do anything to combat recessions? Should it? What determines the price level, and why does the cost of living keep rising? What is the government budget deficit? How does it affect the economy? Is a trade deficit good or bad for the economy? Why are so many countries poor? What policies might help them grow out of poverty?