Course 2008-2009 a.y.

Go to class group/s: 31 - 32

MM-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI) - AFC-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI) - CLAPI-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI) - CLEFIN-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI) - CLELI-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI) - DES-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI) - CLG-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI) - M-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI) - IM-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI) - ACME-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI) - EMIT-LS (6 credits - II sem. - AI)

Course Director:
ELIANA LA FERRARA

Course Objectives

The purpose of this course is to provide students with analytical and empirical tools that enable them to understand the functioning of markets and institutions in Less Developed Countries (LDCs). The methodological approach emphasizes the role of Information and incentives in examining from a microeconomic point of view how LDCs cope with market mperfections. We analyze in depth the informal sector and the emergence of social norms that can be interpreted as a rational response to the economic environment. Particular emphasis is placed on program evaluation and on the empirical analysis of education, health and microcredit policies.
For each topic, recent theoretical contributions are proposed and compared to existing empirical evidence, in order to train the student to develop a research process that goes from the formulation to the test of hypotheses. Students are also encouraged to work directly on available data.

Course Content Summary

• Economics of the family
• Education and health policies
• Land markets
• Credit markets and microfinance
• Risk sharing and insurance
• Social capital, groups and networks
• Corruption and firms' performance
• Economic causes and effects of civil conflict

Detailed Description of Assessment Methods

The exam is written. 

Textbooks

Readings are provided at the beginning of the course

Exam textbooks & Online Articles (check availability at the Library)

Last change 29/04/2008 12:16