Economics provides a coherent method of analyzing the distribution and growth of scarce human and material resources. Economic principles, when applied, can lead to outcomes which benefit all of society. Using resources, human and otherwise, in more intelligent ways increases the likelihood of alleviating poverty, mitigating environmental degradation, and providing for future generations.
In studying economics in our department, faculty members work together with students to develop a common theoretical core and then apply these principles to a wide variety of topics. In evaluating alternative policies to achieve various objectives, we cast a critical eye at the objectives and the assumptions of the models. When possible, we put theoretical models to empirical scrutiny.
Faculty members vary in age, back ground, experience, and personality, but we are united chiefly in our attempts to teach well and to convey to our students the excitement and immense value of studying economics. We also seek to apply the training we received in leading graduate schools and in subsequent research activities to the problems facing a variety of economies. We have received grants for special studies from a variety of foundations, we have published articles in leading economics journals, and we have authored books. Our research has been conducted not only in the United States, but also in Africa, Indonesia, Latin America, Europe, and Russia.
Address:Carleton College 100 South College Street Northfield, Minnesota 55057-4016
