Course Description: Greed is good, says Adam Smith, an oft-quoted line in the field of economics. But Smith follows this with the lesser-cited statement: “humanity, justice, generosity, and public spirit are the qualities most useful to others.” So when did the well-being of the economy become at odds with the well-being of people? Why is it that, in today’s market economy of capitalism, big corporations flourish and the top 1% grow richer while the working class suffers? This Decal explores today’s greatest societal inequalities through the lens of both economics and sociology, unpacking “middle-out” economics (an alternative to top-down economics) through various case studies and special topics presented in episodes of Nick Hanaeur’s podcast “Pitchfork Economics.” Each week will be structured around a selected podcast episode (which feature additional guests like Ingrid Robeyns, Brad DeLong, etc.), which students will listen to before class. Students will also learn about the different schools of economic and sociological thought, with an emphasis on addressing the missing perspective of sociology in college economics classes. Students will critically analyze texts and podcast episodes through written responses and in-class discussions. Students will produce their culminating project over the course of the semester: a written and recorded podcast episode of their own that explores a related topic of their choice. The final project may be completed individually or in groups of 2-3 students.

Key Learning Outcomes: By the end of the semester, students will be well-versed in the fundamentals of economic sociology and its applications regarding today’s greatest social inequalities. They will have developed a well-rounded understanding of the different economic schools of thought, with an ability to articulate their relation to social inequalities. They will finish the course with a podcast episode of their own making (written script & recording), informed by their own research as well as in-class discussions and course texts. If they so choose, this final podcast episode may be published online for the broader public audience.

Course Policies
Grading (P/NP) - 70 points for pass
35 points for Attendance and Participation
30 points for Class Assignments - (12HW x 2.5 points)
25 points for Final Project (Podcast Episode)
10 points for Presentation

Attendance + Participation:
All students are expected to attend classes regularly and promptly and for the duration of the scheduled instructional time. Repeated unexcused absences may result in a grade of "NP" for the course. Be prepared with necessary materials such as a laptop and be present and productive throughout the entirety of class.

Enrollment is open to all students from all majors, first come first serve! You must be able to attend the full duration of class (Tuesdays, 6:00-7:30pm) in order to enroll. To enroll, search for and enroll in ECON 198 on CalCentral.