Principles of Economics (Microeconomics)
ECON 10A
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
Economists study human behavior using a combination of models and data. Ec10a introduces students to economic models using intuitive discussions, graphical analysis, and, in some cases, basic algebra. The models study individual decision-making and markets, and range from classical approaches like supply and demand to more recent approaches that consider informational limitations and behavioral mistakes. We will also use data to understand the strengths and weaknesses of these models. The course also discusses the role that ethics and values play in people's choices and in policy discussions, including an understanding and critique of approaches like utilitarianism, Rawlsian principles of justice, and libertarianism. The goal of the course is to provide students with a set of tools that will help them develop answers for themselves on how to make better choices and participate in debates on major public policy issues in areas including tax policy, inequality, discrimination and racial justice, and the environment.
Course Notes
Ec10a is the first half of an integrated sequence that continues with the study of macroeconomics in Ec10b. Students may elect to take only the microeconomics course and receive four credits. This sequence is designed with two types of students in mind. For students who will never take another economics course, Ec10a and Ec10b provide a self-contained training to prepare them to understand and engage with economic issues. For students who end up concentrating in economics, Ec10a and Ec10b provide a wide-ranging introduction to the field and are required courses. The Department of Economics strongly encourages students considering concentrating in economics to take these courses during their first year at the College. Ec10a and Ec10b are not duplicative of AP Economics courses but aim to provide a broader perspective and a deeper engagement with public policy and current developments in the field of economics (e.g., behavioral economics). Either Ec10a or Ec10b fulfills the Social Sciences divisional distribution requirement. It is not necessary for students to take both halves of Ec10 to fulfill this divisional requirement.
Class Notes
This course requires students to choose timed sections during registration.
Available for Harvard Cross Registration
NOTE: This course requires additional sections; you will be prompted to choose secondary components during the Add to Cart process
