Aims

To show how economists approach all dimensions of the public sector. The course only provides an introduction, but also seeks to illustrate the reasoning; it does not aim to provide directly operational knowledge.

Content and teaching methods

Content
The course begins by defining the notion of the public sector, and illustrating its place in the economy.
There will then be a lengthy discussion on the basic concepts of efficiency and equity.
The microeconomic and macroeconomic foundations of state intervention in the functioning of markets will be examined in relation to these concepts. Certain themes of "public-sector economics" and "economic policy" will be addressed in this way. The course will conclude with an analysis of the state's behaviour as a market operator, and mainly in the context of public enterprises.
Methodology
Theoretical talk illustrated by many examples taken from current events.
Students will be provided with a detailed syllabus.
The course assumes a basic knowledge of microeconomics and macroeconomics.