In this course we will explore the role government should - and does - play in the economy. We will review the rationale for government action aimed at correcting market failures; we will examine the intended and unintended consequences of individual households' and firms' responses to particular public policies. Our topics will include social insurance programs; tax policy and tax evasion; public goods and environmental policies; government deficits and debt; the effects of redistributive policies on efficiency and inequality; and the political economy of government decision-making. Students will identify successes, failures, and frustrations associated with current and historical policies and will explore prospects for policy reform. Active class participation is an important part of the course.
5 units · Letter or Credit/No Credit
In this course we will explore the role government should - and does - play in the economy. We will review the rationale for government action aimed at correcting market failures; we will examine the intended and unintended consequences of individual households' and firms' responses to particular public policies. Our topics will include social insurance programs; tax policy and tax evasion; public goods and environmental policies; government deficits and debt; the effects of redistributive policies on efficiency and inequality; and the political economy of government decision-making. Students will identify successes, failures, and frustrations associated with current and historical policies and will explore prospects for policy reform. Active class participation is an important part of the course.
Offered in Winter 2027 at Stanford University.