State, Law and the Economy II from edX

Economic concepts often give a fresh and unobvious perspective when applied to the study of how the state, law, and the economy functions and are interrelated. This course teaches students essential economic concepts in an intuitive manner relevant to the study of political economy.

Part One of the four-part course focused on developing the essential economic concepts which are applied to the study of the nature of the liberal democratic state and why it has to be a limited state in contrast to a populist democratic one.

This MOOC is Part Two. Part Two provides an in-depth exploration of the political and economic factors that influence power dynamics, governance, and growth across various political systems. Spanning four weeks, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of authoritarian rule, one-party governance, and their economic consequences. Additionally, the course will delve into the implications of rent-seeking behavior and examine the factors that contribute to the rise and decline of nations. By the end of this course, students will be equipped with a foundation in the rich interplay of politics, economics, and social change.

Part Three will cover the rule of law and its legal origins, consequences of legal origins for growth, law or state as determinants of economic growth, and transition from dictatorship to democracy and their permanence. Part Four is a study of nature of politics in pre-industrial states with examples drawn from China, Europe, the Islamic world, and India. We also discuss the relevance and limitations of the economic approach to the study of law and politics.

以經濟概念研究國家、法律和經濟作用，與及如何相互關聯時，往往產生一種新鮮但不明顯的觀點。本課程以與政治經濟學研究相關的直觀方式教授學生基本經濟概念。

本課程共有四部份。課程的第一部份著眼於發展基本經濟概念，然後將這些應用於研究自由民主國家的性質，以及為什麼它必須是一個有限的國家，而不是民粹主義的民主國家。

本慕課是課程的第二部份。第二部份深入探討影響各種政治制度下權力動態、治理和增長的政治和經濟因素。課程為期四週，學生將對專制統治、一黨治理及其經濟後果有全面的了解。此外，本課程還將深入研究租尋行為的影響，並梳理促使國家興衰的因素。在完結課程後，學生將掌握政治、經濟和社會變革之間豐富相互作用的基礎知識。

稍後第三部份課程包括法治及其法律淵源，法律淵源對發展的影響，法律或國家作為經濟發展的決定因素，以及從獨裁到民主的過渡及其永久性。第四部份是對成為工業國家以前的政治性質的研究，其中的例子來自中國，歐洲，伊斯蘭世界和印度。我們還討論了從經濟學角度研究法律與政治的相關性和局限性。

What's inside

Learning objectives

To understand how collective decisions are made with the use of economic concepts:
How the emergence of states in facilitating collective decisions have reduced incidences of violence and improved human welfare.
How economic concepts can be applied to tackle problems and conflicts, for example, through well-defined property rights, use of rule-based methods, voting rules, etc.
The application of the theory of social choice to illuminate the liberal and populist interpretation of voting and the relationship with theories of liberty and democracy.
Learn how actual politics can be viewed as the use of heresthetics or the art of manipulation to achieve political objectives.

了解如何使用經濟概念作出集體決策:
國家的出現如何促進集體決策、減少暴力事件並改善了人類福祉。
如何應用經濟概念來解決問題和衝突，例如，通過明確的產權，使用基於規則的方法，投票規則等。
應用社會選擇理論來闡明自由主義和民粹主義對投票的解釋以及與自由和民主理論的關係。
了解如何將實際政治視為使用美學或操縱藝術來實現政治目標。

To understand how collective decisions are made with the use of economic concepts:
How the emergence of states in facilitating collective decisions have reduced incidences of violence and improved human welfare.
How economic concepts can be applied to tackle problems and conflicts, for example, through well-defined property rights, use of rule-based methods, voting rules, etc.
The application of the theory of social choice to illuminate the liberal and populist interpretation of voting and the relationship with theories of liberty and democracy.
Learn how actual politics can be viewed as the use of heresthetics or the art of manipulation to achieve political objectives.
了解如何使用經濟概念作出集體決策:
國家的出現如何促進集體決策、減少暴力事件並改善了人類福祉。
如何應用經濟概念來解決問題和衝突，例如，通過明確的產權，使用基於規則的方法，投票規則等。
應用社會選擇理論來闡明自由主義和民粹主義對投票的解釋以及與自由和民主理論的關係。
了解如何將實際政治視為使用美學或操縱藝術來實現政治目標。

Syllabus

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第一週：專制和獨裁政治

在第10講中，我們探討專制的概念。我們提供對專制統治的本質、控制機制以及這類制度內權力分享的見解。第11講深入探討獨裁政府的複雜性。該講座旨在全面了解與獨裁統治相關的機制和挑戰，以及有助於這類政治制度穩定或不穩定的因素。

第二週：黨的統治之地

第12講探討中國共產黨基層的內部運作，黨在地方治理中的作用，以及黨的組織控制對中國國家的影響。

第三週：尋租行為及其經濟後果

第13講討論與關稅、壟斷、盜竊和尋租行為相關的福利成本，並考慮這些活動更廣泛的經濟後果。第14講探討團體中集體行動所面臨的挑戰以及對公共物品供應的影響。

第四週：國家的興衰

第15講探討曼庫爾*奧爾森（Mancur Olson）關於國家興衰的理論，重點關注利益團體和社會僵化在塑造經濟績效方面的作用。第16講經濟中不同行業人才分配與經濟增長之間的關係。

Week 1:Autocracy and Authoritarian PoliticsIn Lecture 10, we explore the concept of autocracy. We offer insights into the nature of autocratic rule, the mechanisms of control, and the dynamics of power sharing within such systems. Lecture 11 aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms and challenges associated with authoritarian rule, as well as the factors that contribute to the stability or instability of such political systems.

Week 2: Where the Party rulesLecture 12 explores the inner workings of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) at the grassroots level. It focuses on the role of the party in local governance, as well as the implications of party organization and control for the Chinese state.

Week 3: Rent seeking and its economic consequencesLecture 13 discusses the welfare costs associated with tariffs, monopolies, theft, and rent-seeking behavior, highlighting the importance of considering the broader economic consequences of these activities. Lecture 14 explores the challenges associated with collective action in groups and the implications for the provision of public goods.

Week 4: The rise and decline of nationsLecture 15 explores Mancur Olson's theories on the rise and decline of nations, focusing on the role of interest groups and social rigidities in shaping economic performance. Lecture 16 examines the relationship between the allocation of talent across different sectors in an economy and its implications for economic growth.

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Taught by Y.C. Richard Wong, who are recognized for their work in political economy

Examines political and economic factors that influence power dynamics, governance, and growth across various political systems

Develops essential economic concepts with an intuitive approach to studying political economy

Provides an opportunity to understand the complex interplay of politics, economics, and social change

In-depth exploration of the political and economic consequences of authoritarian and one-party governance

May require learners to come in with basic economic knowledge

Career center

Learners who complete State, Law and the Economy II will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Public Policy Analyst

Public Policy Analysts research and analyze public policies to inform decision-making. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, provides a strong foundation in the economic principles that underlie public policy. By exploring topics such as the role of government in shaping economic outcomes and the consequences of rent-seeking behavior, learners gain insights into the complex factors that influence policy decisions. This course is highly recommended for those seeking careers in government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations involved in public policy advocacy.

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Actuary

Actuaries use mathematical and statistical techniques to assess and manage financial risks. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, provides a deep understanding of economic principles and their application in risk management. By examining topics such as the role of government in shaping economic outcomes and the consequences of rent-seeking behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence financial risks and insurance premiums. This course is recommended for those seeking careers in actuarial science, insurance, or financial planning.

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Forensic Accountant

Forensic Accountants investigate financial crimes and provide expert testimony in legal proceedings. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, provides a deep understanding of economic principles and their application in forensic accounting. By examining topics such as the role of government in shaping economic outcomes and the consequences of rent-seeking behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence financial crime and fraud detection techniques. This course is recommended for those seeking careers in forensic accounting, auditing, or law enforcement.

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Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts provide research and analysis on financial markets and investments. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, helps build a foundation in economic principles and their application in financial decision-making. By examining topics such as the role of government in shaping economic outcomes and the consequences of rent-seeking behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence financial markets and investment strategies. This course is recommended for those seeking careers in financial analysis, portfolio management, or investment research.

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Economist

Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, provides a deep understanding of economic concepts and their application in political and social contexts. By examining topics such as rent-seeking behavior and the allocation of talent, learners gain valuable knowledge for analyzing economic policies and their impact on society. This course is highly relevant for those pursuing careers in economic consulting, government policymaking, or academia.

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Budget Analyst

Budget Analysts analyze and manage budgets for organizations and governments. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, provides a deep understanding of economic principles and their application in budgeting. By examining topics such as the role of government in shaping economic outcomes and the consequences of rent-seeking behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence budget allocation and fiscal policies. This course is recommended for those seeking careers in budgeting, financial planning, or public finance.

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Political Scientist

Political Scientists analyze political systems and behaviors, contributing to a deeper understanding of government and public policy. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, delves into essential economic concepts that shape political decision-making. By exploring topics like autocracy, authoritarian politics, and the rise and decline of nations, learners gain insights into the interconnectedness of economics and politics. This course can be particularly helpful for those looking to enter academia or research in political science, as it provides a solid foundation in economic principles applied to political analysis.

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Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to solve complex problems in business and industry. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, provides a strong foundation in economic principles and their application in decision-making. By examining topics such as the theory of social choice and the role of incentives in shaping behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence business operations and decision-making. This course may be particularly useful for those interested in operations research roles in supply chain management, logistics, or healthcare.

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Risk Analyst

Risk Analysts assess and manage risks in various contexts, including finance, insurance, and healthcare. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, provides a deep understanding of economic principles and their application in risk management. By examining topics such as the role of government in shaping economic outcomes and the consequences of rent-seeking behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence risk assessment and mitigation strategies. This course is recommended for those seeking careers in risk management, insurance underwriting, or financial regulation.

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Investment Banker

Investment Bankers advise corporations and governments on raising capital and making investment decisions. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, provides a deep understanding of economic principles and their application in financial markets. By examining topics such as rent-seeking behavior and the consequences of government intervention, learners gain valuable knowledge for analyzing investment opportunities and making informed financial decisions. This course is recommended for those seeking careers in investment banking, asset management, or financial analysis.

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Auditor

Auditors examine financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, provides a deep understanding of economic principles and their application in financial reporting. By examining topics such as the role of government in shaping economic outcomes and the consequences of rent-seeking behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence financial reporting and auditing practices. This course is recommended for those seeking careers in auditing, accounting, or financial regulation.

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Tax Accountant

Tax Accountants prepare and file tax returns for individuals and businesses. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, provides a deep understanding of economic principles and their application in taxation. By examining topics such as the role of government in shaping economic outcomes and the consequences of rent-seeking behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence tax policies and tax planning strategies. This course is recommended for those seeking careers in tax accounting, tax consulting, or financial planning.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to provide insights and inform decision-making. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, helps build a foundation in economic principles and their application in data analysis. By examining topics such as the theory of social choice and the role of incentives in shaping behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence data collection, analysis, and interpretation. This course may be particularly useful for those interested in data analysis roles in economics, public policy, or business.

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Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data to provide insights and inform decision-making. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, helps build a foundation in economic principles and their application in statistical analysis. By examining topics such as the theory of social choice and the role of incentives in shaping behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence data collection, analysis, and interpretation. This course may be particularly useful for those interested in statistics roles in economics, public policy, or business.

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Management Consultant

Management Consultants provide advice to businesses and organizations on improving their performance. The course, State, Law and the Economy II, helps build a foundation in economic principles and their application in organizational decision-making. By examining topics such as the theory of social choice and the role of incentives in shaping behavior, learners gain valuable insights into the economic factors that influence business strategies and outcomes. This course may be particularly useful for those interested in consulting roles that focus on economic analysis or business strategy.

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