Introduction to Global Economics and Pub

What are the drivers of GDP and what differentiates growth rates between countries? What is the role of the market in shaping the economy and can the government address market failure to benefit more citizens? What are the unintended consequences of poorly designed government policies? How do current policies on trade and foreign investment impact globalization and economic development? How will economic sanctions, aid, and cyber be used as a policy tool? What are the geopolitics and geoeconomics of oil and is U.S. energy independence achievable or even desirable? Does economic development necessarily entail a negative impact on the natural environment? How will COVID-19 shape world geopolitics and geoeconomics?

This course provides students with an understanding of current macroeconomic debates and the reasoning behind significant global policy decisions. We focus on the contentious nature of each of the topics covered so as to ensure a comprehensive understanding of each issue. Participants are introduced to concepts such as growth theory, monetary and fiscal policy, trade policy, globalization, balance of payments, economic statecraft, development, international aid and sovereign debt, and climate change. Additionally, we will discuss the geopolitical and economic effects of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Case studies, readings, in-class discussions, debates, and student presentations provide an interactive and analytical but non-technical overview on macroeconomic concepts. The course includes asynchronous work, which students are expected to complete between class sessions.