Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/economics
In our daily lives, economic concepts are ubiquitous, from personal finance and investments to global news and policy discussions. Yet, for many, the field of economics can seem daunting and abstract. Fortunately, Coursera’s ‘Introduction to Economics: Incentive and Markets’ (經濟學概論：誘因與市場) course offers a refreshingly accessible entry point into this vital discipline.
This four-week course, taught in Mandarin with English subtitles available, provides a solid foundation in core economic principles. It masterfully breaks down complex ideas into digestible modules, beginning with the fundamental building blocks of economics. Week one introduces concepts like opportunity cost, marginal thinking, the invisible hand, and how individuals and markets make decisions. The inclusion of an interactive game here is a brilliant touch, allowing learners to experience rational prediction firsthand and truly grasp the fun of economic thinking.
Building upon this foundation, week two delves into the heart of microeconomics: supply and demand. Learners will understand the factors that shift these curves, the relationship between substitute and complementary goods, and the crucial concept of market equilibrium. The course excels at illustrating how changes in supply or demand ripple through the market, affecting prices and quantities.
Week three extends this understanding by examining the impact of government policies, specifically price controls like price ceilings and price floors. By applying the supply and demand framework, students can analyze the real-world consequences of these interventions on market outcomes. This section is particularly valuable for developing a critical eye towards economic policy.
Finally, week four introduces the concept of ‘surplus’ – consumer surplus and producer surplus – a key element in welfare economics. The course effectively demonstrates how these concepts can be used to analyze the welfare effects of government taxation and international trade. Understanding surplus allows for a more nuanced judgment of how economic policies affect different stakeholders.
What truly sets this course apart is its consistent use of real-life examples. The instructors skillfully connect theoretical concepts to everyday scenarios, making economics relatable and demonstrating its practical application in all aspects of life. By the end of this course, you won’t just learn economic jargon; you’ll develop an ‘economic intuition,’ enabling you to analyze problems like an economist and make more informed judgments about economic issues. It’s an excellent stepping stone for anyone looking to pursue further economic studies or simply to gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.
I highly recommend ‘Introduction to Economics: Incentive and Markets’ to anyone seeking to demystify economics. It’s a well-structured, engaging, and practical course that delivers on its promise to cultivate economic thinking and appreciation.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/economics