Applied Economics [antikvár]

NTRODUCTION Most introductory economics booiss focus on theory. That is right and proper since economics is a way of thinking, and without theory it is nothing. Nevertheless, theory on its own is rather like a sandwich without any filling - dull and unappetizing. This book attempts to remedy this deficiency. Most chapters do contain some theory, but this is to give a context to the application which is the essential subject of the book. In this way we believe that economics is made interesting as well as worthwhile. Each chapter is self-contained. This means that the book can be read in any order. However, it does have a structure, making it easy to use as a set book for a course. The book begins with several chapters concerned with microeco-nonucs. It then widens its focus to look at the economy as a whole and with international aspects of economics. A special feature is the last chapter, which is an invaluable guide to sources of information in economics. It should be used as a source of reference throughout the course. Whatever the subject of the chapter, all reflect that we live in a world in which international factors affect us all - hence a feature of the book is a strong European flavour. Each chapter contains a bibliography which is meant to be useful to readers who want to pursue the topic in more depth. The book is aimed at first- and second-year students of economics in higher education. It will therefore be suitable for those taking degrees in economics and also for students who are just taking a one-year course in the subject - for example, those taking banking or accounting courses. Its introductory nature also makes it suitable as an additional text for those taking A-level economics or business studies. A book such as this is the result of the work of many people. The editorial staff at Macmillan have been a great help to me, and we have been lucky to have assembled such a distinguished team of writers. To all those, and to the anonymous critics of the early drafts, thank you. Brian Atkinson xvi