Economics for Labor & Community Leadership (LABST 013)

offers a general introduction to political economy to equip those who want to better understand the system with the analytical tools they will need to make it more equitable and just.  This course combines history and philosophy with a practical analysis of “nuts and bolts” economic issues and challenges facing working people.  It helps to explain how things got to be the way they are, offers some insight into whether they need to be that way and what the alternatives might be.  The instructor will utilize reading assignments, lecture, class discussion and videos to help students tackle issues such as inequality and poverty, social security and pension reform, globalization and trade, fiscal and monetary policy, tax reform, budget deficits and debt, and other contemporary topics.  This is not a math course.  It provides a practical non-technical introduction to economics and a foundation for further study in economics, social and political science, sociology and philosophy.  It fulfills the general education degree requirement for those pursuing an AA degree but is open to all.