Foundations of Economics: Society, Markets, and Inequality

Ever wonder why our economies work the way they do, or how everyday choices can have a global impact? This course provides the essential tools of economic thinking to help you decode the complex world of markets, policies, and societal structures. You will move beyond basic theory to see how economic principles apply to the real issues we face today. By the end, you'll be equipped to analyze news headlines, understand policy debates, and make more informed decisions as a consumer and citizen. What you'll learn: - Understand core economic principles like scarcity, opportunity cost, supply, and demand. - Analyze how different market structures, from perfect competition to monopolies, impact consumers and businesses. - Explore the principles of behavioral economics to see how human psychology influences financial decisions. - Examine the economic effects of government policies, including taxation, regulation, and social programs. - Investigate the causes and consequences of economic inequality and the tools used to measure it. - Learn how the gig economy and digital platforms are reshaping modern labor markets and consumer behavior. The course starts with fundamental terminology and concepts, building a solid foundation before exploring how these ideas play out in our personal lives and broader society. Each topic is explained through clear, text-based lessons and practical examples. This course is designed for absolute beginners. No prior knowledge of economics or advanced mathematics is required to get started. Start reading today to gain a new lens through which to view the world.