This applied course on “The German Economy”
covers policy relevant topics ranging from historic economic events over recent
economic reforms to current debates on economic policy.
Historic economic episodes and events in
Germany like hyperinflation, great depression, currency reforms, Wirtschaftswunder, stagflation, German reunification, European monetary integration,
and European eastern enlargement continue to inform economists and policy
makers and still shape people’s attitudes towards questions of economic policy.
Recent (and some not so recent) reforms and policy changes include the
introduction of the Euro, the Hartz reforms of labour market institutions, various
pension reforms, the Energiewende, the introduction of the general minimum
wage, and many more. Current debates on economic policy and economic policy
challenges include but are not limited to climate policy, inequality, network
infrastructure in energy, transport and communications, fiscal sustainability,
as well as strengthening resilience in the face of recent and current crises
like the financial crisis, Covid-19 and the war in Ukraine.
Throughout the course, analysis is based on
introductory economics, which in some cases is briefly reviewed.
The course is primarily targeted at foreign exchange students who want to get acquainted with their host country’s economy and economic policy debate. The course language is English. The course is part of the 2nd phase of the bachelor program in economics. Some prior knowledge in economics is required. Local students from other departments might find the course interesting. Local students of VWL (economics), IVWL (international economics) and BWL (business administration) are also welcome. Notice that students of BWL must not use the course as their required 2nd phase VWL course.
See also: Info package https://knoppik.app.ur.de/edu/docs/gec_info.pdf .