Political Economy of Institutions

Catalog description

This course is an introduction to political economy. It focuses on the interaction between states, citizens, private enterprises, and markets. It starts by introducing some of the core concepts in game theory, such as simple normal and extensive form games; and pure and mixed strategy equilibria. It then reviews some of most influential works in contemporary political economy. The rest of the course is divided into three parts. The first part examines the support for, and the effects of domestic economic policies on welfare and inequality. The second part focuses on policies for economic development, from a comparative perspective, as well as hindrances. The final part studies the role of media and information on political accountability and state control of media.