The course aims to equip students with essential tools for describing and understanding the main determinants of long-term economic growth and the convergence or divergence between countries. It integrates key theoretical concepts with data analysis to explore the evolution and history of economic systems and their implications for socioeconomic development. By the end of the course, students should be able to explain the role of fundamental growth factors such as institutions, financial markets, investments, human capital, and technology.
None. It is preferable for students to have completed introductory courses in Microeconomics and Macroeconomics.
Teaching will primarily consist of lectures, with a strong emphasis on interaction with students. During the lessons, students will have the opportunity to propose in-depth studies or engage in group work and presentations on specific topics indicated at the beginning of the course.
The exam consists of a written test that includes true/false questions, multiple-choice questions, and open-ended questions/exercises. The test aims to verify students' ability to analyze and reason using economic tools. The final evaluation will be based on a combination of the written exam conducted at the end of the course and group work assignments, which will be detailed at the beginning of the course. There are no additional oral exams.
The course will focus on the study of fundamental concepts in economic theory, as well as understanding the evolution and history of economic systems and their implications for social development from both theoretical and empirical perspectives.
Course Structure:Part 1: Market and Economic TheoryThe first part of the course will cover the study of various markets, including:
Additionally, a stylized model of economic growth, such as the Solow model, will be explored.
Part 2: Factors of Economic GrowthThe second part of the course will delve into the factors that drive economic growth, with a particular emphasis on the role of institutions. Topics will include:
The course will also discuss how institutions are influenced by and interact with pre-existing social norms and the dominant culture in society, addressing the co-evolution of institutions and social factors.
