PHIL/POLI/ECON 384.002 – Gateway to Philosophy, Politics, and Economics

Instructor: Dan Shahar. This course meets MW 3:35 – 4:50 p.m. in CW 105.

It is easy to take modern civilization for granted, but it is an incredible achievement. Virtually all of us are wealthier, healthier, safer, and better-educated than our ancestors, and we can expect our children to be even better-off still. How has this been possible? How can our societies continue to improve? This course will draw on powerful insights and techniques from the fields of philosophy, politics, and economics to seek answers to these questions. In this course, you will examine how property rights, markets, and political action combine to create flourishing civilizations. You will grapple with thorny issues like environmental degradation, distributive justice, and economic exploitation. And you will gain valuable analytical tools from rational choice theory, utility theory, game theory, and public choice economics—as well as critical communication and independent study skills that will serve you throughout your college career.

Recommended prerequisite: 1 ECON course.

All seats reserved for declared PPE minors. To officially declare the PPE minor, contact your academic advisor for assistance. This particular section is not co-convened, and will meet all semester at UNC.