Nov 22, 2024
OHIO University Undergraduate Catalog 2024-25
ECON 3010C - Economics of Altruism
This course is an introduction into behavioral economic theory and methods as they pertain to concepts of altruism, generosity, and giving. The course will contrast economic theories that predict selfish behavior to those that attempt to explain kindness and generosity. Recent research in behavioral economics shows a plethora of surprising and often, conflicting evidence on the existence of altruism. Students will become familiar with the altruism literature and related economic experiments and games. The role of humanitarianism in society will be explored as students perform service learning projects with local non-profit organizations. Students will learn project evaluation techniques to give insight into effective philanthropy.
Requisites: Jr or Sr
Credit Hours: 3
OHIO BRICKS: Bridge: Learning and Doing
Repeat/Retake Information: May be retaken two times excluding withdrawals, but only last course taken counts.
Lecture/Lab Hours: 3.0 lecture
Grades: Eligible Grades: A-F,WP,WF,WN,FN,AU,I
Learning Outcomes:
- Apply behavioral economic concepts to the interpretation of altruistic acts.
- Design appropriate behavioral economic experiments and interpret their significance.
- Discuss the origins and motives for altruism.
- Evaluate philanthropic organizations using measures of relevance, impact, and sustainability.
- Participate with local philanthropic efforts to shed light on effective philanthropy.
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