Middlebury

ECON 0410

Economics of Sin

The Economics of “Sin”: Sex, Crime, and Drugs
In this course we will apply traditional microeconomic principles to non-traditional topics such as adultery, prostitution, teen pregnancy, crime and punishment, drugs and drug legalization, and gambling. We will ask the following questions throughout the course: To what extent is "sinful" behavior rational and utility-maximizing? What role does the government play in regulating "sinful" behavior and what are the consequences of these government interventions? The primary focus will be on the United States but brief comparisons will be made to "sinful" behavior and policy interventions in other countries. (ECON 0211 and ECON 0255) 3 hrs. sem.
Subject:
Economics
Department:
Economics
Division:
Social Sciences
Requirements Fulfilled:

Sections in Fall 2007

Fall 2007

ECON0410A-F07 Seminar (Holmes)