Case Study (Economic Policy for Development and Growth - Japanese Experience)
Faculty
Schedule
Winter Semester; Thu.; Time slot #6
Description
- Syllabus (PDF, 63KB attached on 2009-10-19)
This case study will focus on the linkage between fiscal policy in a broad sense and Japanese economic development. The economic policies covered in the course will include public expenditure policies on investment in human capital (such as education and health), social safety net mechanisms (like public pension, medical care, and employment insurance), the building of industrial infrastructure, and tax policy / administration as it relates to the financing of public spending. Although the so-called lost decade diminished the attractiveness of the Japanese economic model, the economic revival post-WWII still serves as a beacon of hope for many impoverished nations. By reviewing the bubble economy in the late 1980s, and the following lost decade, we will draw lessons for emerging markets currently at the mercy of financial globalization.
Further topics to be covered include:
1. The acute problem of rapidly ageing populations in both Japan and China
2. Japanese technical assistance in areas such as taxation and development finance
3. The effectiveness of IMF and World Bank advice on fiscal policies in developing countries
The class will be conducted in English and active participation will be encouraged. Fluency in English will not be required. Students will form several groups depending on their interests and collectively write a final paper in English. The course aims to prepare students for future positions, in both the public and private sectors, where an international perspective is required.
Guest speakers will be invited to introduce Japanese technical assistance.
Grading
Grading will be based on class participation (50%) and a report (50%). Active class participation will be highly evaluated, but fluency in English will NOT be necessary.