ECON 502(S) Institutions and Governance
Over the last two decades economists have become increasingly aware of the importance of the "social infrastructure" at various levels of economic activity: capable and honest government officials must be available to formulate and implement policies, markets must be supported by suitable institutional frameworks, property rights must be secure, and contracts reliably enforced. Even the structure of the household, the smallest institution analyzed by economists, has been shown to have an important influence on economic development. This course will survey the growing literature on institutions and governance. Evaluation will be based on several short papers. The class will primarily follow a discussion format.
Note: Requires permission of instructor. Students who have previously taken Economics 459 will not be enrolled.
Prerequisites: At least one among Economics 253, Economics 255, Economics 510, Economics 511, Statistics 346. Enrollment limit: 19 (expected: 19).
Hour: A. V. SWAMY