International Economics - 2nd semester

General characterization

Prerequisites

None

Bibliography

1.Reinert, Kenneth A. An Introduction to International Economics. New Perspecitves on the World Economy. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2011.
2.Schenk, Catherine R. International Economic Relations since 1945. New York: Routledge, 2011.
3.Krugman, Paul, Obstfeld, Maurice and Melitz, Marc. International Economics. Theory and Policy. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2011 (9th edition).
4.Broadberry, Stephen and O’Rourke, Kevin (Eds.). The Cambridge Economic History of Modern Europe. Vol. 1: 1700-1870, Vol. 2: 1870 to the Present. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2010.

Teaching method

Theoretical classes for the presentation and discussion of key concepts (50%), and practical classes for further methodological analysis and development of case-studies with greater participation from students (50%).

Evaluation method

A mid-term test (50%) and a final test (50%). Participation in class is mandatory and includes an oral presentation.

Subject matter

This course addresses the study of the theoretical and empirical tools that allow for a better understanding of how the economies interact in a globalized world. It will discuss the theories that explain the direction and content of international trade, including the theory of comparative advantages (Ricardo), the theory that determine the intensity of flows based on the analysis of the allocation of factors of production (Heckscher-Ohlin), and the gravitational theories that explain why there may be no winners in international trade (Krugman). From the empirical point of view, we will study the causes behind fluctuations in the intensity of international economic relations, since the advent of European industrialization in the nineteenth century through the downturn of the international economy between the wars, the analysis of the causes behind the growing economic globalization since the end of World War II. In this context, it will also study the political foundations of the international economy, including the creation of the gold standard, in the nineteenth century, the management problems of the international economy, during the period between the two world wars, and the institutions created in the aftermath of the War World (IMF, World Bank and OEEC/OECD), and of European integration (ECSC, EEC, European Union and Economic and Monetary Union). Particular attention is given to the links between international economics and international politics

Programs

Programs where the course is taught: