Course 2024-2025 a.y.

The structure course contains three pillars:

• Linear Algebra; the first one is a quick introduction to Linear Algebra and to its application in Politics. Several models are presented, together with their implementation.
• Differential and Integral Calculus; the second pillar is a crash-introduction to Differential and Integral Calculus, with various applications in Economics, NGO management. Basic applications to Statistics are presented too.
• Dynamic Systems; the last pillar of the course consists in seeing how quantitative and qualitative approaches to the study of Dynamic Systems do constitute a powerful tool for the analysis of socio-political questions. The approach privileges intuition rather than formal mathematical rigor. Special attention is given to model construction. 

• Select the appropriate model to describe phenomena which are relevant in Social Sciences
• Recognize the correct methodology for solving optimization problems
• Define a motion law and explain its meaning
• Understand and explain the meaning of a phase diagram

• Apply calculus to analyze the main properties of a function and to solve optimization problems
• Argue the asymptotic behaviour of a dynamical model and interpret the resulting scenarios  
• Develop a convenient quantitative model to describe Social phenomena
• Apply integral calculus to solve basic ODE and discuss the behaviour and the meaning of its solutions 

• Lectures
• Practical Exercises

A number of online "Skill quizlet" are available in Blackboard. They are organized by topic and allow students to self-test their understanding and skills. 

Assessment, both for attending and non-attending students, is based entirely on the written exam.

Students may take one general written exam (100% of the grade) or two partial written exams (50% of the grade each).

The written exams are divided into open-ended and multiple-choice questions. The exam aims to verify:

•     The ability to develop the convenient model to describe the required phenomena; 
•     The knowledge of differential calculus and the ability to apply it for solving the assigned optimization problem;
•     The ability to find equilibria and argue the asymptotic behaviour of the assigned dynamical model;
•     The knowledge of integral calculus and the ability to apply it to solve the assigned ODE.

• L. PECCATI, M. D'AMICO, M. CIGOLA, Mathematics for Social Sciences, Springer, NY, 2018.
• Exercises and any further material available on Blackboard.