| This module provides an introduction to economic problems in a range of key areas of government expenditure such as health, education and pensions. The main focus is on how economic principles can be used to explore key theoretical and practical issues in these areas and how empirical evidence can be used to evaluate them. The range of topics covered seek to highlight current issues of government, national and international concern. The module begins by presenting the concepts of economic and social optimum in the context of different welfare theories. The theoretical framework is then used to study in some detail the reasons behind government intervention in selected markets, such as unemployment insurance, education, health and crime.
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