ECO 3600Economics of Social Justice

Catalog

Prerequisite(s): ENG 1020 or ENG 1021 with a D- or above Crosslisting: GWS 3650 In this course, students apply the tools of economic analysis to issues affecting marginalized groups (as determined by, for example, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, age, and ability) in the United States. Students examine labor market disparities and how factors such as racism and sexism affect outcomes in these markets. Students also explore the role of institutions and social and cultural norms in creating and maintaining disparities in economic outcomes. In particular, students analyze disparities in education, the criminal justice system, and housing and wealth from the economic perspective. Across all topics, students learn how power and privilege intersect across different racial, ethnic, sexual, and class identities. Finally, students use economic tools to evaluate policies and strategies that promote social justice.