Course description
The course is an introduction to the fundamental models and methods used in the analysis of long run macroeconomic issues. The first part of the course provides an in-depth treatment of seminal models and topics in modern growth theory, such as Solow, Cass-Ramsey, Romer, overlapping generations, poverty traps, expanding varieties, and Schumpeterian growth. Additionally, this section serves as an opportunity to review important findings in optimal control theory and the analysis of microfounded dynamic general equilibrium frameworks, which have applications in various fields of economics. The second part of the course introduces some recent developments in the growth literature. Topics covered in this section include directed technical change (skill-bias and task-based approaches), artificial intelligence, multi-product firms, and unified growth theory. These discussions provide students with insights into the latest advancements and research in the field of economic growth. While this class focus is on theoretical methods, we will also review some major empirical contributions to the literature.
Assessment methods
Presentation of a research paper (40%, group of 2) + final exam (60%).