economics is awesome

This three-course study is a survey of the basic principles that will give the student a thorough grounding in fundamental economic concepts. Each course is complete in itself, and may be pursued separately — but the fullest benefits will be obtained from the entire series.

The basic textbooks for each course are works of the great American economist Henry George. Though his books first appeared in the late 19th century, they are fully applicable to today's conditions, because the principles with which they deal are universal. The basic problem which George set out to solve in his book Progress and Poverty is still today's basic problem: Why, in spite of progress, does poverty persist?

Many answers have been given since George's day, and many measures have been applied, but the problem still remains. The problems of the business cycle and recurring periods of unemployment have also defied solution. In our courses we look into George's analysis, to which insufficient attention has been paid, and which has never successfully been refuted.

Our approach to economic study is fundamental and non-technical. Basic terms are defined, basic economic laws are sought and basic principles are applied. Study supplements are offered throughout — elaborating certain points, applying the principles to current conditions and answering frequently asked questions.

The lessons in each course are as follows:

Understanding Economics
Text: Progress and Poverty

1. The Basics. Economic Definitions
2. The Problem of Poverty: Was Malthus Right?
3. Wealth Distribution: There is Such a Thing as Natural Law!
4. How Progress Brings Poverty in its Wake
5. Capital and Labor: Allies or Antagonists?
6. The Economics of Booms and Busts
7. The Remedy; Its Justice
8. Our Backwards Tax System and How to Fix It!
9. The Effects of George's Remedy
10. The Law of Human Progress

Applied Economics: Globalization and Trade
Text: Protection or Free Trade

1. Protection vs. free Trade
2. How to Encourage Industry?
3. Trade & the Function of Money
4. Protection, Profits & Wages
5. Solving the Paradox
6. International Trade Today
7. Development & Sustainability
8. Trade & Economic Growth

Economic Science
Text: The Science of Political Economy

1. The Meaning of Political Economy
2. Methods of Political Economy
3. The Nature of Wealth
4. Wealth and Value
5. Wealth, Capital and Privilege
6. The Production of Wealth
7. Cooperation and Exchange
8. Distribution of Wealth
9. Money
10. Political Economy Today

A certificate is given at the end of each course. The Henry George Institute is not authorized to grant academic credit. The question of such credit for our courses would have to be taken up with the accredited institution with which the student may be associated. Information on our courses will be provided to such institutions upon request.

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