FYSE1476A-F16
Homo Economicus
Homo Economicus
“It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest,” states Adam Smith, the “father” of economics. We will explore the power and limitations of models of human behavior that posit self-interest as universal motivation. What about seemingly irrational choices? Do we need new economic models to explain philanthropy or procrastination? To explore these questions, we will study works by early economists like Smith, current works on behavioral economics, writings by Steven Levitt, author of Freakonomics, and Nate Silver’s writings about data analysis. 3 hrs. sem. SOC (T. Byker)
“It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest,” states Adam Smith, the “father” of economics. We will explore the power and limitations of models of human behavior that posit self-interest as universal motivation. What about seemingly irrational choices? Do we need new economic models to explain philanthropy or procrastination? To explore these questions, we will study works by early economists like Smith, current works on behavioral economics, writings by Steven Levitt, author of Freakonomics, and Nate Silver’s writings about data analysis. 3 hrs. sem. SOC (T. Byker)
- Term:
- Fall 2016
- Location:
- Wright Memorial Theater SEM(WTH SEM)
- Schedule:
- 9:30am-10:45am on Tuesday, Thursday (Sep 12, 2016 to Dec 9, 2016)
- Type:
- Seminar
- Instructors:
- Tanya Byker
- Subject:
- First Year Seminar
- Department:
- First-Year Seminar Program
- Division:
- Interdisciplinary
- Requirements Fulfilled:
- CW SOC
- Levels:
- Undergraduate
- Availability:
- View availability, prerequisites, and other requirements.
- Course Reference Number (CRN):
- 92465
- Subject Code:
- FYSE
- Course Number:
- 1476
- Section Identifier:
- A