ECO 212 - Economics of Social Issues and Ethical Dilemmas

This courses applies economic principles to important contemporary social issues. A wide range of subjects is explored, ranging from clearly economic subjects such as unemployment and globalization to painful social problems such as crime and poverty to seemingly noneconomic concerns such as organ transplants and illegal drug use. The theme unifying the topics is the ethical dilemmas that lie beneath the surface. Thus, widely held beliefs are challenged and critically examined in this course. Investigation of contemporary social problems using the lens of economics should deepen students’ awareness and understanding of significant current events and their underlying ethical tradeoffs. This course also introduces and develops an appreciation of the fundamental principles and analytical framework of economics. The goal of the course is to broaden and deepen the students’ understanding of both social issues and economics.

General Education Requirements: Ethics

Course Typically Offered: Fall, Alternating

Credits: 3