October 1, 2021

Econ 101 has fallen on hard times. I won't repeat all the rebuttals to this perspective that have been offered by sophisticated true believers or by master teachers of 101.

Instead, I simply wanted to share the approach I take. Here and here are a few slide decks I’ve used for Econ 101.

Each class period centers on a question about the social world that economics illuminates. My goal is to invoke a sense of awe and wonder at the power and beauty of economic reasoning. As it is, Econ 101 suffers from a want of wonder. No wonder (pun intended) when it’s taught as an exercise in 7th grade algebra and 10 grade geometry.

The Economic Approach I: Do seatbelt laws kill?

The Economic Approach II: Do economists agree?

Foundations of Economics: Why should you thank your high school geometry teacher?

Economic Method: What’s the difference between a rock and a person?

Human Action: What did the Martian see at Grand Central Station?

Opportunity Cost: Do hurricanes make the world a better place?  ****

Economic Goods: If your life depended on it, could you make an omelet?