The Economics of Everyday Life

Harvard FAS

Why do some religions thrive while others lose followers? Why might competition fail to eliminate media bias? Would legalizing drugs reduce violence? Do more police prevent crime—and how can we tell? How can nonviolent protesters gain power against opponents willing to use force? Can affirmative action be productivity enhancing?This course explores the power of economics to illuminate everyday life and some of society’s most contentious questions. Topics range from…