ECON 1740: US Economic History

Unpack the primary subdivisions of economics: Microeconomics, centered on individual economic agents, and Macroeconomics, which looks at broader economic trends. Understand the core differences and inherent connections between these two fields. Explore real-world examples to comprehend their implications.

Explore the differences between the Four-firm Concentration Ratio and the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index. Understand how they assess market concentration and dominance. Get insights into market power dynamics by comparing these two indices.

Explore the fundamental concept of scarcity in economics. Understand the tension between our infinite desires and the finite resources we have. Grasp how scarcity influences our choices, necessitating trade-offs in everyday decisions.

Explore the multifaceted role of economists in society, their interpretation of complex economic data, and how they provide guidance to decision-makers. Discover why economists may offer conflicting advice due to varying economic theories, data interpretation, personal values, and political ideologies.

Explore the intricacies of monopolies and price discrimination in the market. Unpack myths and truths about consumer behavior and pricing strategies. Real-life examples illuminate these fundamental economic concepts.

Learn about the intricacies of opportunity cost and its broader implications. Delve into the balance between human and physical capital, understanding the risks of overinvestment. Grasp the Law of Diminishing Marginal Returns and its effects on national strategies.