Free to Choose Revisited

Catalog description

This course revisits Milton and Rose Friedman's influential book Free to Choose, which argues that economic freedom and competitive markets are essential for prosperity and political liberty. The authors contend that individuals making their own economic choices leads to better resource allocation than government interventions, which often cause negative consequences. Students will read a chapter of the book each week and watch the corresponding PBS episode to prepare for discussions, as well as engage in policy debates and complete writing assignments. The course involves significant participation and culminates with students preparing a 15-minute video project on a instructor-approved topic. Recommended prerequisites include Economics 1 and a readiness for debate and abstract thinking.