UNAS3333 · University and Capstone

Cross Currents: Thinking About Law and Economics (and Psychology)

Morrissey College of Arts & Sciences

In this seminar, we will explore how traditional and behavioral economic theories apply to the positive and normative analyses of laws, legal issues and legal systems. Incorporating psychology, we will investigate how behavioral economists have challenged or complemented the rational choice theory of traditional economics.To enjoy this seminar, no prior knowledge of law, economics or psychology is required. The assigned readings, response papers and meeting discussions will enable you to understand and to discuss all the topics that we will explore and to contribute to and actively participate in meeting discussions. This seminar will be provocative and stimulating not only for students who are interested in pursuing professional careers in law or economics or psychology or public policy, but also to a wider audience of students who are intellectually curious about how law, economics and psychology can be applied in real world situations and what influences the decisions and choices that we make in our daily lives.