Study location	Netherlands, Maastricht
Type	Summer Courses, Full-time
Nominal duration	1 week (2 ECTS)
Study language	English

Tuition fee	€699 one-time

Entry qualification

Enrolled as an Undergraduate student or Undergraduate diploma This course, “Introduction to Economic Theories,” is designed to be inclusive and accessible to a wide range of students. Whether you’re a budding economist, business major, social science and history enthusiast, or someone passionate about global affairs, this course offers valuable insights into the core economic theories that shape our world. It doesn’t require specific prerequisites or a designated major, making it an excellent choice for anyone with a general interest in economics. The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English. Often you can get a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original.

Language requirements	English The language of the course is English, so we expect a fluent level and the ability to follow and participate in class.

More information	maastrichtsummerschool.nl

Overview

Course Description
Economics is a dynamic and multifaceted field that provides valuable insights into how societies allocate resources, make decisions, and shape their financial systems. This course, “Introduction to Economic Theories,” is designed to give students a foundational understanding of key economic theories, both at the macroeconomic and microeconomic levels. By delving into Macroeconomics with a focus on Keynesian economics, Neoclassical economics, and Marxian economics, as well as Microeconomics, with emphasis on Consumer Choice Theory and Theory of Firm Behaviour, students will explore the diverse and influential perspectives that underpin economic analysis.
Macroeconomics:
Keynesian Economics:
• Analyse the historical context and key insights from John Maynard Keynes, and the application of Keynesian thought in economic policymaking.
• Explore the core principles of Keynesian economics, emphasizing the role of aggregate demand, government intervention, and fiscal policy in managing economic cycles.
Neoclassical Economics:
• Examine the principles of neoclassical economics, emphasizing the rationality of individuals and firms, market competition, and the efficiency of resource allocation.
• Discuss how neoclassical economics has influenced contemporary economic thinking and policy.
Marxian Economics:
• Explore the contributions of Karl Marx and the critical analysis of capitalism from a Marxian perspective.
• Gain an understanding of Marxian economics, focusing on class struggle, historical materialism, and the labour theory of value.
Microeconomics:
Consumer Choice Theory:
• Delve into the principles of consumer choice theory, which studies how individuals make decisions about allocating their limited resources to maximize utility and satisfaction when faced with various consumption options.
• Examine the impact of factors such as changes in income, prices, and personal preferences on consumer choices, and their implications for market demand and resource allocation in different economic environments.
Behavioural Theory of the Firm:
• Investigate how firms make decisions regarding production, pricing, and resource allocation to maximize profit.
• Examine the role of cost minimization and the theory of the firm’s supply.

Goals
• Understand the Core Concepts: Develop a solid understanding of the foundational concepts and principles of each economic theory, both in macroeconomics and microeconomics.
• Analyse Historical Context: Explore the historical context in which these theories developed and the key figures who shaped their evolution.
• Examine Policy Implications: Investigate how each economic theory has influenced economic policy decisions at both macroeconomic and microeconomic levels.
• Apply Theories to Real-World Scenarios: Apply these theories to real-world economic issues, fostering an understanding of their practical applications.
• Promote Critical Thinking: Encourage critical thinking and informed discussions about the strengths, weaknesses, and relevance of different economic theories in today’s global economy.

Recommended Literature
1. Macroeconomics Simplified: Understanding Keynesian and Neoclassical Economics by Nicole Nattrass and G. Visakh Varma
2. www.econlib.org/library/Enc1/KeynesianEconomics.html
3. What is Neoclassical Economics? Debating the Origins. Meaning and Significance by Jamie Morgan
4. www.econlib.org/library/Enc/NeoclassicalEconomics.html
5. The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money by John Maynard Keynes
6. Contending Economic Theories: Keynesian, Neoclassical and Marxian by Richard D. and Stephen A.
7. Marxian Economic – An Introduction by David Ruccio
8. A Behavioural Theory of the Firm by Richard M. and James G.
9. us.sagepub.com/sites/default/files/upm-assets/5029_book_item_5029.pdf
10. Explaining Consumer Choice by Gordon R Foxall

Teaching Methods
Lectures, Papers, Presentations, Case Studies

Assessment Methods
Assignments, Attendance, Observation, Participation, Presentation

Course Coordinator
Vriti Sharma