Smog, global warming, holes in theozone layer, and pesticides in our drinking water are common topics in newspapers and newscasts. However, the environmental problem which is easily seen, is too often handled in an overly simplistic manner. Common political responses to these problems include requiring industries to stop air pollution, imposing severe taxes on automotive emission, and banning the production of CFCs. These policies do tend to curb pollution, while imposing costs to society. This course describes the issues and looks at the solutions.
Economic theory provides the tools to analyze the issues.
We will follow the text through the first three questions. If time permits we will delve into the fourth question. There is much to do in this course. Besides the textbook, we will have handouts, videotapes, and fieldtrips. Further you will be expected to do a lot of writing on a variety of topics throughout the course because this course is writing intensive.