09446 - Microeconomics

Learning outcomes

The aim of the course is to provide the students with an introductory knowledge of the microeconomic analysis. The main focus of the course is on consumer theory, but selected topics on production and firm theory will also be covered. In particular, upon completion of the course, the student will have a working knowledge of consumer theory and will be able to use it to interpret real-world phenomena. Also, the student will have a overview of production theory and on profit maximization under perfect competition and monopoly.

Course contents

1. Introduction
2. Consumer theory under certainty, individual and market demands, Notes on choice under uncertainty.
3. Intertemporal choices and activity markets.
4. Consumer surplus, revealed preferences and the Slutsky equation.
5. Individual and market demand, exchange.

MODULE 2

1. Technology: cost minimization, cost curves.
2. Firm and industry supply.
3. Competitive equilibrium.
4. Monopoly.

Readings/Bibliography

• Hal R. VARIAN, Microeconomia, Cafoscarina, Venezia, last edition.
• Further references will be indicated when needed.

Teaching methods

Traditional lectures.

Assessment methods

Written, closed book, exam: multiple-choice and short free-response questions. The maximum mark (all answers correct and complete, with an appropriate level of formalization) is 30 e lode.

Mark scale:

<18         Fail.

18-23      Pass.

24-27      Good.

28-30      Distinction.

30 e lode Great Distinction.

If online, the exams will be held on the EOL platform and will have the same structure.

Teaching tools

The slides used in class as well as some sample exams will be posted on the e-learning platform.

Office hours

See the website of Emanuele Bacchiega