Advanced Macroeconomics 1600-SZD-N-AMa-EF
The course goes into the core of macroeconomic growth theory, exploring both the classical and modern models that have shaped our understanding of economic progress. Students will critically examine the mechanics of the Solow-Swan, Ramsey-Cass-Koopmans, and endogenous growth models—each rooted in a steady-state dynamic equilibrium approach—and assess their underlying assumptions, policy implications, and empirical relevance. We will then extend our analysis to overlapping generations (OLG) models, which introduce heterogeneity in the lifecycle of agents and provide a more nuanced view of intergenerational transfers and capital accumulation. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on a critical evaluation of these models: what do the authors intend, where do these theories succeed, and where do they fall short? The curriculum encourages students to confront both the practical challenges of applying these models to real-world data and the philosophical questions about the nature of progress, inequality, and sustainability. By integrating theoretical rigor with empirical applications and philosophical inquiry, the course aims to equip students with the tools needed to both understand and critique the models that dominate contemporary macroeconomic thought.
Type of course
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Knowledge: Knows and understands:
WG_1 - to the extent necessary for existing paradigms to be revised - a worldwide body of work, covering theoretical foundations as well as general and selected specific issues - relevant to a particular discipline within the social sciences
WG_2 - main development trends of the scientific or artistic disciplines which are the object of studies
WG_3 - scientific research methodology in the field of the social sciences
WK_1 - fundamental dilemmas of modern civilization
WK_2 - economic, legal, ethical and other significant determinants of academic activity
Skills: Can
UW_1 - use knowledge of various scientific or artistic disciplines to creatively identify, formulate and innovatively solve complex problems or perform research tasks, and specifically: define the purpose and subject of research and formulate a research hypothesis, develop and creatively use research methods, techniques and tools, draw conclusions from research results
UW_2 - make a critical analysis and evaluation of the results of scientific research, expert activity and other creative works and their contribution to the development of knowledge
Social competences: Is ready to:
KK_1 - critically evaluating achievements within a given scientific discipline in the field of the social sciences
KK_2 - critically evaluate own contribution to the development of a given scientific or artistic discipline
KK_3 - recognising the importance of knowledge in solving cognitive and practical problems within a specific discipline in the field of the social sciences
Assessment criteria
9) description of requirements related to participation in classes, including the
permitted number of explained absences; 80% presence
Principles for passing the classes and the subject (including resit session); To successfully pass this course, students must engage deeply and critically with both the theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence related to macroeconomic growth and overlapping generations models. Active participation in class discussions and debates is essential, as the course relies heavily on critically examining each model’s assumptions and real-world implications.
Methods for the verification of learning outcomes; Oral credit
Evaluation criteria In essence, success in this course is measured by your capacity to engage with the material at a deep level, think independently, and provide well-reasoned critiques that demonstrate a solid grasp of both the mechanics and the broader implications of macroeconomic models.
Bibliography
Lecture notes are tailored to each topic
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: