The public sector’s large role in the economy shows the importance of understanding the principles of public finance. How do we explain the growth of the public sector’s share in the economy during most of the twentieth century? What criteria are relevant in determining the optimal level and scope of government activities? Topics examined include public goods and externalities, natural monopolies, pricing of publicly produced goods, and benefit-cost analysis. Lect: 3 hrs. Prerequisites: ECN 504 Course Weight: 1.00 Billing Units: 1
