Semester Course

The purpose of this course is to provide a comprehensive study of the basic institutions, concepts, principles, and practices of economics. Instruction covers basic economic concepts that underlie the United States market system and its operations. Instructional units apply these concepts at both the micro and macro levels; promote informed voter and consumer decision making, provide information about major economic theories and prominent economists, and emphasize how economics influence the lives of ordinary citizens. In addition, the course investigates the complex political and economic issues confronting national, state, and local governments. Also included is an analysis of the American free enterprise system through a study of comparative economics. Included is instruction on the international dimensions of economics and the “global” economy. Throughout this course, measurement concepts and methods involving tables, charts, graphs, ratios, percentages, and index numbers are introduced to understand the relationship between economic variables, thus adding to their mastery of economic thought and method.