PAM 3390

Economics of Race and Discrimination

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2022-2023.

This course surveys economists' analyses of the experiences of underrepresented racial and ethnic groups in the U.S., both as individuals and in communities. The course examines theoretical material related to wage determination, labor market discrimination, housing segregation. We will also make a detailed empirical examination of changes in family structure and wellbeing, labor market inequality, educational attainment and achievement, household values and behavior, and racial disparities in criminal justice outcomes. In addition, we will examine various public policy issues and proposals and the intended or unintended consequences on racial inequality.

When Offered Spring.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: PAM 2000 and PAM 3100 or their equivalent courses (e.g., ECON 3030, ECON 3120).

• Explain the various reasons why racial difference in economic outcomes exists.
• Discuss economic theories of discrimination and the economic activities in which each theory applies.
• Use statistical tools to identify and measure discrimination as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of certain policy initiatives.
• Explain how anti-discrimination policy contribute to differences in economic outcomes across groups and over time.
• Discuss the importance of various policy issues, such as the civil rights, the voting rights, affirmative action, and policing.

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