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364-0559-02L 3 Credits DR D-MTEC
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Design of Institutions and Political Economy

Lecturers & Examiners: PD Dr. Volker Britz
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:55:26

Abstract

Institutions and in particular political institutions are a central determinant of economic performance. In this course, we learn the characteristics of collective decision making and political processes as well as the theoretical tools in institutional design. At the end of the course we will discuss recent research in political economics, design of institutions and policy.

Objective

In this doctoral course, we learn the theoretical tools and major results in collective decision theory and political economics. We will use this knowledge to discuss recent research in political economics. The course enables the participants to do their own research in political economics or apply the frameworks to interesting institutional design problems in their own research area.

Content

Part I: Theoretical Tools and Important Results (lectures) 1. Collective Decision Making and Impossibility Results 2. Voting Models 3. Lobbying 4. Creating Institutions: A Mechanism Design Perspective 5. Dynamic Political Economy Part II: Recent Research in Political Economics (presentations)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR
Frequency
Every two years

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Grades are given for the presentation of a recent research paper and a short referee report on it.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Design of Institutions and Political Economy
Permission from lecturers required for all students.
  • Wed 16:15-18:00 (ZUE G 1)
2 h weekly

Offered In