What This Document Is
This document is a problem set designed for an advanced undergraduate economics course (Economics 202A) at the University of California, Berkeley. It focuses on core concepts within intertemporal economics and public finance, building upon foundational models and exploring nuanced theoretical arguments. The problem set challenges students to apply economic principles to complex scenarios involving government debt, taxation, and economic growth.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is invaluable for students enrolled in intermediate or advanced macroeconomics courses, particularly those with a focus on dynamic modeling and public policy. It’s best utilized for reinforcing understanding of lecture material, preparing for exams, and developing problem-solving skills essential for success in economics. Students who are comfortable with mathematical derivations and economic reasoning will find this particularly helpful. Working through these problems will strengthen your ability to analyze real-world economic issues.
Topics Covered
* Overlapping Generations (OG) Models
* Government Debt and Intertemporal Budget Constraints
* Fiscal Policy Analysis
* The Barro-Feldstein Debate on Government Bonds as Net Wealth
* Intertemporal Tax Smoothing and Optimal Taxation
* Continuous-Time Government Budget Constraints
* Effects of Taxation on Labor Supply and Economic Output
* Economic Growth and its impact on public finance
What This Document Provides
* A series of challenging problem sets designed to test your understanding of advanced economic concepts.
* Opportunities to apply theoretical models to practical economic scenarios.
* A framework for analyzing the effects of government policies on individual behavior and aggregate outcomes.
* Exercises that require the application of mathematical tools and economic reasoning.
* A deeper exploration of key debates within the field of public finance and intertemporal economics.
