This course introduces students to the relevance of gender relations in economics. The course covers three main components of "gender economics": (1) the gendered nature of the construction and reproduction of economic theory and thought; (2) the relevance and role of gender in economic decision-making; and (3) differences in economic outcomes based on gender.

The course will give students an understanding of the relevance of gender and gender relations in the following topics: economic theory; the history of economic thought; human capital accumulation; labor market discrimination; macroeconomic policy, including gender budgeting; household economics; basic econometrics; and economic crises.

This course will teach students several critical skills. First, they will learn to recognize the gendered nature of the production of economic theory and the presence (or lack thereof) of attention to gender in economic history. Second, students will learn to see the relevance of gender in how economic decisions are made by individuals, households, and firms. Finally, students will see differences in economic outcomes, such as wages, employment, occupational choice, human capital investment, and effects of economic crises by gender.

This course is structured around the instructor's lectures, weekly readings, and in-course activities and discussion. A group project at the end of the semester will allow students to synthesize what they have learned in the class and apply it to a specific topic of their choice. 

Students will be graded on the following criteria: short response papers to readings; a discussion paper; class participation; and a final group paper and presentation. In the first week of class, students will learn how to write academic papers, how to cite literature, and other relevant skills needed for the course.

Alyssa Schneebaum, Ph.D.: alyssa.schneebaum@wu.ac.at; +43 1 31336-5936; Office in building D4, room 2.012.