Public Economics

• - Introduction: Functions and characteristics of the public sector
• - Theoretical tools of public economics
• - Welfare economics
• - Externalities and the economic justification for public intervention
• - Public goods and common resources
• - Welfare State and poverty
• - Market power and income distribution
• - Social insurance
• - Health care
• - Pension systems
• - Education
• - Cost-benefit analysis
• - Tax system: economic efficiency and optimal taxation
• - Fiscal federalism
• - Theory of collective choice

The aim of this course is to analyze, from an economic point of view, the justifications and methods of state intervention in the economy. In particular, it seeks to answer the following questions:

• - What are market failures? And when is (or isn’t) public intervention appropriate?
• - What goods and services does the public sector provide and how should it be organized to ensure efficient delivery?
• - What are the functions of the Welfare State? How has it evolved over time and why?
• - What are the forms of state financing?
• - What are the advantages and disadvantages of federalism?
• - What public challenges are related to the new digital economy and sustainability?

• Povertà zero
• Salute e benessere
• Energia pulita e accessibile
• Lavoro dignitoso e crescita economica
• Ridurre le disuguaglianze
• Consumo e produzione responsabili
• Agire per il clima

In presenza

In person.

The course content will be presented through lectures and deepened with exercises, external contributions, and thematic seminars. At the start of the semester, students will be invited to choose between two seminar paths, each focused on a specific topic, designed to actively apply the theoretical concepts covered in class.

Active participation in lectures and exercises is strongly recommended. The many examples presented in class and the references to current events are fundamental for a full understanding of the models discussed and for successfully tackling the final exam.

Final written exam on the computer consisting of multiple-choice questions, exercises, and open theoretical questions.