Middlebury

ECON 0478

Technology and Labor Markets

Technology and Labor Markets
In this course, we will explore the question: who gains from technological advances, and who loses? We will first learn theories of skill-biased technical change and automation through canonical and task-based Ricardian models. We will then apply these theories to a range of technological advances, including robots, computers, and complex software. For each technology, we will study the nuanced effects on employment, the wage distribution, and the nature of work. Additional topics will include historical technological advances (eg: electricity), and how technology contributes to growth in developing countries. We will then turn to emerging technologies like AI: can we extrapolate from what we have learned to predict how new technologies will impact workers? (ECON 0111 (formerly ECON 0210) and ECON 0250 or ECON 0255) 3 hrs. sem.
Subject:
Economics
Department:
Economics
Division:
Social Sciences
Requirements Fulfilled:

Sections

Fall 2024

ECON0478A-F24 Seminar (Contractor)
ECON0478B-F24 Seminar (Contractor)

Spring 2024

ECON0478A-S24 Seminar (Contractor)
ECON0478B-S24 Seminar (Contractor)