ECC1530

Evolution of economic systems

Not offered in 1999

Associate Professor Tony Dingle

6 points · Two 1-hour lectures and one 1-hour tutorial per week · Second semester · Clayton

Objectives On completion of this subject students should understand the broad patterns of change in the world economy from early times to the present and how economic systems have evolved during that period; be familiar with a range of economic concepts and the basic characteristics of some important economic institutions; have developed their writing and oral skills by researching and writing a long essay and delivering a tutorial talk.

Synopsis This subject provides a brief survey of world economic history from earliest times to the present. It begins with a brief examination of the simple economies of hunters and gatherers, which have sustained humankind for most of human history. It then looks at the emergence of agriculture and of agricultural economics, the rise of market economies in Europe, the industrial revolution, and concludes with the complex post-industrial economies in which we live today. The distinctive characteristics of each system are compared and contrasted and major economic developments are highlighted. In this way the evolution of new forms of economic activity and economic institutions can be identified and analysed. The subject focuses particularly upon technical change, on patterns of resource used, on property rights, the relationship between population and output and the evolution of specialist economic institutions such as markets, monetary systems, banks, businesses and workplaces.

Assessment Written (2000-word essay): 30% · Tutorial work (written and oral): 20% · Examination (2 hours): 50%

Back to the 1999 Business and Economics Handbook