Teaching starts Autumn

Language of instruction English.

Recommended previous knowledge Introductory courses in micro- and macroeconomics.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course the student should have acquired knowledge of the long-run economic development including economic growth, industrialization, trade, crises and integration (globalization) such as:

• The period previous to, and the Industrial Revolution itself.
• Economic trends in 19th Century Europe: mobility of capital and people, trade and the spread of the industrialization.
• The development of an international monetary system.
• The inter-war years and the Great Depression.
• Since 1945: European and world economy (to a lesser extent). Integration and monetary arrangements.

Course contents The recent major events in the global economy have sparked a new (and hopefully persistent) interest in economic history. Most economists today seem to agree on the importance of understanding past economic events as a necessary - although not sufficient condition - in order to understand todays´ complex and integrated economies. Not only does this apply to the understanding of major downturns in the economy, but also to long-run questions like economic growth. The wealth of Europe and the rest of the Western world is by historical standard a recent phenomenon. This of course raises the question, why did Europe get a head start compared to other parts of the world? And why does a large proportion of the world strive to catch up? Why do we have such a great inequality in the world and what is the importance of technological innovations, institutions and political regimes? By and large, we are interested in understanding the evolution of economies and how this has influenced the life and the standard of living of individuals.

Teaching methods and workload Mainly lectures. However, the students are expected to attend class and participate in presentations and class discussions. Topics covered in class as well as in the written material will form the basis for the exam. Students are encouraged to form study groups to discuss the readings.

Examination requirement Approved compulsory assignment. Further information will be given in Fronter at the beginning of the semester.

Assessment methods and criteria 4 hour written exam with graded marks.

Type of course Theoretical.

Level of course

First cycle i.e. bachelor level.

Year of study Normally third year.

Name of lecturer/contact person Student Adviser Anne Line Omsland.