Microeconomic Principles Fall 2012
Office: CPCOM 430C
Phone: (480) 965-4683
E-mail: nancy.roberts@asu.edu
Hours: TTH: 7:15 – 8:30 a.m. and 12:00 – 12:30 p.m.
Other times by appointment.
“Underlying most arguments against the free market is a lack of belief in freedom itself.”
-- Milton Friedman
COURSE MATERIAL: 1. Textbook: Microeconomics by Boyes and Melvin, 9th edition, (Paperback or 180 day digital rental)
COURSE OBJECTIVE: Economics is a powerful tool for understanding human behavior. In Microeconomics we develop a logical framework to analyze and understand decision making by individual consumers and businesses and the effects those decisions have on the marketplace. At the semester’s end you will have a better understanding of how markets work, how prices are determined, how markets react to shortages and surpluses, why profits are important, and how government is involved in the economy. Classroom attendance is strongly recommended. Much of the material is quite analytical and students will spend considerable time devoted to the material outside of class to successfully complete the course. The exams are designed to challenge even the best of students. They require logic and problem solving ability. Memorization will be of no value in this course. The ability to read and understand graphs is basic.
ECONOMICS LAB: To assist you in your study of economics, an Economics Laboratory for this class will be available 15 hours each week. The Lab will be staffed with Teaching Assistants and Student Mentors who will assist you with your homework, exam preparation and your study of economics in general. The lab hours and locations will be posted on the Electronic Blackboard.
HOMEWORK: You will be assigned 4 homework sets and given at least two weeks to complete them. Completed assignments must be submitted to the