Lecture

Applying Supply and Demand

This module delves into the principles of supply and demand and their critical role in the functioning of markets. Students will learn how these forces interact to determine prices and quantities of goods and services. Using the CDMA case study, the module illustrates the application of these concepts in telecommunications, emphasizing shifts in supply and demand curves and how equilibrium is established in the marketplace.


Course Lectures
  • This module introduces students to the fundamental concepts of microeconomics. It explores how individual decisions are made based on limited resources and the implications of these choices on markets and economies. Through the case study of code division multiple access (CDMA), students will understand how microeconomic principles apply to real-world scenarios, learning about opportunity costs, trade-offs, and economic agents' behavior in diverse situations.

  • Applying Supply and Demand
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module delves into the principles of supply and demand and their critical role in the functioning of markets. Students will learn how these forces interact to determine prices and quantities of goods and services. Using the CDMA case study, the module illustrates the application of these concepts in telecommunications, emphasizing shifts in supply and demand curves and how equilibrium is established in the marketplace.

  • Elasticity
    Jonathan Gruber

    Elasticity measures how responsive the quantity demanded or supplied is to changes in price. This module covers the different types of elasticity, including price elasticity of demand and supply, income elasticity, and cross-price elasticity. Through the CDMA case study, students will analyze how elasticity affects consumer behavior and production decisions, enabling them to predict market reactions to various economic changes.

  • Preferences and Utility
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module examines consumer preferences and utility, exploring how individuals make choices based on their preferences and available resources. Students will learn about utility functions, indifference curves, and budget constraints. The CDMA case study demonstrates practical applications, helping students understand how consumers maximize satisfaction and make decisions in various economic contexts.

  • Budget Constraints
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module focuses on budget constraints and the consumer's decision-making process. Students will learn how budget constraints represent the limits on the consumption choices of individuals. Through the CDMA case study, the module provides insights into how consumers allocate their income to maximize utility, considering the prices of goods and available budget.

  • Deriving Demand Curves
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module involves deriving demand curves, illustrating how consumer demand changes with variations in price. Students will explore the relationship between price and quantity demanded, using the CDMA case study to contextualize theoretical concepts. The module helps in understanding the factors impacting demand curves and how to interpret them in different economic scenarios.

  • Producer theory is introduced in this module, focusing on how firms make production decisions to maximize profit. Students will learn about production functions, cost structures, and profit maximization. The CDMA case study highlights practical applications, helping students analyze the behavior of firms in competitive markets and the factors influencing their production choices.

  • This module applies consumer theory to labor supply, exploring how individuals decide the number of hours to work based on preferences, wages, and leisure. The CDMA case study provides insights into real-world labor supply decisions, helping students understand factors such as wage rates, income effects, and substitution effects on labor supply.

  • This module examines the application of consumer theory to child labor, analyzing the economic and social factors influencing child labor decisions. Students will learn about the trade-offs families face and the impact of policies on child labor. The CDMA case study contextualizes these concepts, helping students understand the complexities of child labor in various economic environments.

  • Productivity and Costs
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module covers productivity and costs, exploring how firms measure and manage production efficiency. Students will learn about cost functions, economies of scale, and the relationship between inputs and outputs. Using the CDMA case study, the module illustrates these concepts, helping students understand how productivity affects competitiveness and profitability in different markets.

  • Competition I
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module introduces the concept of competition in microeconomics, focusing on how firms compete in various market structures. Students will learn about perfect competition, monopolistic competition, and the factors influencing firm behavior. The CDMA case study offers practical insights into competition dynamics, helping students analyze market outcomes and strategic interactions among firms.

  • Competition II
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module continues the exploration of competition, delving deeper into market structures and competitive strategies. Students will explore oligopolies, monopolies, and the role of competition policy. Through the CDMA case study, the module provides insights into how firms operate in less competitive environments and the impact on consumer welfare and market efficiency.

  • Competition III
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module concludes the study of competition by examining complex market interactions and strategic behavior among firms. Students will learn about game theory, strategic decision-making, and the role of information in competitive markets. The CDMA case study helps students understand real-world applications, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and competitive intelligence.

  • Welfare economics
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module introduces welfare economics, exploring how resources are allocated in society and the implications for social welfare. Students will learn about efficiency, equity, and the role of government in market economies. The CDMA case study illustrates these concepts, helping students understand how economic policies can impact welfare and the distribution of resources.

  • Monopoly
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module examines monopoly markets, focusing on the behavior and pricing strategies of monopolists. Students will learn about market power, barriers to entry, and the impact of monopolies on consumer welfare. Through the CDMA case study, the module illustrates real-world monopolistic practices, helping students analyze the consequences of reduced competition and regulatory interventions.

  • Monopoly II
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module continues the exploration of monopolies, delving into advanced pricing strategies and market segmentation. Students will learn about price discrimination, bundling, and the effects of monopolistic practices on market efficiency. The CDMA case study offers practical insights, helping students understand how firms exploit market power and the implications for policy and regulation.

  • Oligopoly
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module introduces oligopoly markets, focusing on strategic interactions among a few dominant firms. Students will learn about collusion, price leadership, and the role of competition in oligopolistic structures. The CDMA case study helps students analyze real-world examples, understanding the complexities of oligopoly behavior and the challenges in regulating such markets.

  • Oligopoly II
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module continues the study of oligopolies, exploring advanced concepts such as game theory and strategic behavior. Students will learn about Nash equilibrium, Cournot competition, and Bertrand models. The CDMA case study offers practical insights, helping students understand how firms make strategic decisions in oligopolistic markets and the impact on pricing and output.

  • Factor Markets
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module examines factor markets, focusing on the demand and supply of labor and capital. Students will learn about wage determination, capital pricing, and the role of productivity in factor markets. The CDMA case study provides real-world examples, helping students understand the interaction between factors of production and the implications for income distribution and economic growth.

  • International Trade
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module explores international trade, focusing on the benefits and challenges of global economic integration. Students will learn about comparative advantage, trade barriers, and the impact of trade policies on domestic and global markets. Through the CDMA case study, the module illustrates the real-world effects of trade, helping students analyze the role of trade in economic development and policy formulation.

  • Uncertainty
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module introduces the concept of uncertainty in economics, focusing on how individuals and firms make decisions under conditions of uncertainty. Students will learn about risk, expected utility, and the role of information in decision-making. The CDMA case study provides insights into real-world applications, helping students understand the impact of uncertainty on markets and the strategies used to manage risk.

  • This module explores capital supply and markets, focusing on the factors influencing the supply and demand of capital. Students will learn about interest rates, capital investment, and the role of financial institutions. Through the CDMA case study, the module illustrates the dynamics of capital markets, helping students understand the impact of capital flows on economic growth and stability.

  • This module delves into the concept of Capital Supply and Markets II, focusing on the economic principles that govern capital markets. Students will explore:

    • The role of capital in economic growth.
    • Market structures and their impact on capital allocation.
    • Case studies focusing on real-world applications, particularly in the telecommunications industry.
    • Advanced topics related to capital supply and its implications for market efficiency.
  • Equity and Efficiency
    Jonathan Gruber

    The Equity and Efficiency module examines the balance between equity and efficiency in economic systems. Key areas of focus include:

    • Understanding equity in resource distribution.
    • The trade-offs between equity and efficiency.
    • Real-world examples from policy decisions.
    • Case studies that highlight the implications of these economic principles.
  • This module focuses on Government Redistribution Policy, analyzing how governments redistribute wealth and resources. Topics include:

    • Types of redistribution policies and their economic implications.
    • The impact of taxation on income distribution.
    • Case studies illustrating successful and unsuccessful redistribution efforts.
    • Debates surrounding the morality and effectiveness of these policies.
  • In the U.S. Social Insurance Programs module, students will explore how social insurance programs function within the economy. This includes:

    • An overview of major social insurance programs in the U.S.
    • The role of these programs in economic stability.
    • Case studies on the effectiveness of various programs.
    • Future challenges facing social insurance systems.
  • Healthcare Economics
    Jonathan Gruber

    This module focuses on Healthcare Economics, examining the complex relationship between healthcare systems and economic principles. Key topics include:

    • The economics of healthcare delivery and financing.
    • Impact of government policies on healthcare markets.
    • Case studies analyzing healthcare efficiency and outcomes.
    • Discussions on reforms and their economic implications.
  • The Introduction to Microeconomics Problems module serves as a foundational course for students to tackle various problems in microeconomics. It covers:

    • Basic problem-solving techniques in microeconomics.
    • Common pitfalls and misconceptions in economic reasoning.
    • Step-by-step instructions for approaching microeconomic problems.
    • Practice problems to reinforce learning and build confidence.
  • Problem Set 1, Problem #3 challenges students to apply their knowledge of microeconomic principles to solve a specific problem. This module includes:

    • A detailed breakdown of the problem at hand.
    • Guidance on relevant concepts and theories.
    • Step-by-step solutions to reinforce learning.
    • Discussion on common mistakes and how to avoid them.
  • Problem Set 1, Problem #4 encourages students to delve deeper into microeconomic analysis by working through another challenging problem. This module provides:

    • A comprehensive overview of the problem context.
    • Relevant economic concepts to consider.
    • Step-by-step guidance towards the solution.
    • Advice on how to think critically about economic problems.
  • Problem Set 2, Problem #4 allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to another complex microeconomic issue. This module includes:

    • In-depth analysis of the problem presented.
    • Key theories and concepts relevant to the solution.
    • Step-by-step walkthrough of the problem-solving process.
    • Tips on how to effectively communicate economic reasoning.
  • Problem Set 3, Problem #5 presents students with a new challenge that requires applying advanced microeconomic concepts. Focus areas include:

    • Understanding the problem context and economic implications.
    • Connecting theoretical concepts to practical applications.
    • Guidance on constructing coherent solutions.
    • Reflection on potential errors and learning outcomes.
  • Problem Set 4, Problem #3 engages students in solving a complex problem that tests their understanding of microeconomic principles. This module features:

    • A clear presentation of the problem and its context.
    • Relevant concepts that inform the solution process.
    • Step-by-step guidance to ensure comprehension.
    • Common pitfalls to watch for during problem solving.
  • Problem Set 5, Problem #4e-h challenges students to apply their microeconomic knowledge to a series of interconnected problems. The module includes:

    • A breakdown of each subproblem for clarity.
    • Guidance on relevant theories and concepts.
    • Step-by-step solutions to enhance learning.
    • Discussion on the implications of each solution.
  • Problem Set 6, Problem #3 focuses on a specific microeconomic challenge that encourages critical thinking and application of concepts. This module includes:

    • A detailed presentation of the problem scenario.
    • Key concepts relevant to the solution.
    • Step-by-step guidance for a clear understanding.
    • Advice on how to articulate economic reasoning effectively.
  • Problem Set 6, Problem #4 presents another microeconomic challenge, allowing students to deepen their understanding through practice. This module features:

    • A thorough breakdown of the problem context.
    • Relevant economic theories that assist in the solution.
    • Step-by-step processes to guide students through.
    • Common mistakes to avoid for better understanding.
  • Problem Set 7, Problem #2a-e requires students to tackle a set of interconnected problems that test their comprehensive understanding of microeconomics. This module includes:

    • A detailed overview of each problem's context.
    • Essential concepts that inform the solutions.
    • Guidance on constructing logical arguments for each answer.
    • Discussion on the broader implications of the solutions.
  • Problem Set 8, Problem #2a-b provides students with a final challenge to consolidate their learning in microeconomics. This module covers:

    • A review of the problems to ensure clarity.
    • Key economic concepts and theories applicable to the solutions.
    • Step-by-step guidance for each problem.
    • Reflection on learning outcomes and areas for improvement.