International Trade (361-0-20)

Instructors

Kiminori Matsuyama

Meeting Info

Technological Institute L168: Mon, Wed, Fri 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

We will study the determinants of the cause and implications of international trade, using a series of simple but formal models, each designed to capture the key ideas. This is neither a course on the current issues in the world economy, nor a course on foreign economies. This course deals with conceptual problems that arise from the fact that countries interact with others through international trade. Although I discuss some current issues and historical episodes, I do so only to motivate conceptual problems I am introducing.

Registration Requirements

Econ 310-1 or my permission. This course is designed for econ majors and I assume that you are familiar with the basic concepts and tools in economics. The previous exposure to the calculus is useful but not essential.

Learning Objectives

Policy discussion on foreign trade issues frequently degenerates into rhetorical warfare. In my view, the purpose of studying economics is to acquire the ability to think about important economic issues logically and systematically, thereby making yourself immune to journalistic and political rhetoric. I believe that this is particularly important in the area of international trade.

Teaching Method

Lecture.

Evaluation Method

Two Quizzes. Quiz-#1 covers the material in the 1st 8 lectures. Quiz-#2 covers the material in the 2nd 8 lectures.

Class Materials (Required)

My lecture slides is the core material. No required textbook.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Pre-requisite: Students must have taken ECON 310-1 or MMSS 211-1 and ECON 281 or ECON 381-1 or MATH 386-1 or IEMS 304 or STAT 350 to successfully enroll in this course.