Optimisation and Microeconomic Theory

ECO401 Optimisation and Microeconomic Theory

Spring 2024

Autumn 2024
  • Topics

    The main topic of the first part of the course is the theory and practice of constrained optimisation. After rehearsing the necessary mathematical tools, we focus on Lagrange's technique to solve a maximisation (or minimisation) problem when side constraints need to be respected. We pay attention to the so called first- and second-order conditions of the problem, and a number of very useful by-products of Lagrange's technique, such as maximal value functions, shadow prices and comparative statics.

    The second part gives a solid introduction to the standard microeconomic theory. Equipped with Lagrange's technique, we first study the behaviour of individual agents (consumers, business firms, investors) in the economy, and later their interaction through markets. This will give us an understanding of the main results in microeconomics, and a feeling for the methodology used in economic theory.

    Almost every scientific article or paper in economics makes use of the technique of constrained optimisation and uses a microeconomic model to describe individual and market behaviour. This course will therefore enable students to read and understand the recent economic literature, as well as to engage in economic model building. But it will also teach how to formulate a well-defined problem and how to solve it. In that sense it is of interest to the applied economist whether he or she will work as an analyst in a firm, as a consultant, or as a researcher.

    Part 1: Linear algebra, vectors and matrices. Lagrange´s multiplier method. Extension of Lagrange´s technique to non-negativity constraints and inequality constraints: the Kuhn-Tucker conditions. Shadow prices and maximum value functions. Linear approximations. The second-order conditions to an optimisation problem.

    Part 2: Introduction to microeconomic theory. Preferences and consumer demand. Derived concepts (indirect utility function, minimal expenditure function). Comparative statics (Slutsky equation). Measurement of welfare and welfare changes. Aggregation of demand. Production theory, cost minimisation and profit maximisation. General equilibrium and decentralisation of resource allocation decisions.

  • Learning outcome

    Upon completion of the course, students will:

    Knowledge

    • be able to explain the main optimisation techniques used in management and economics
    • be able to explain and apply standard microeconomic price theory, in particular the notions of individual and aggregate market behavior, general equilibrium and efficiency properties of market allocations

    Skills

    • be able to apply optimisation techniques to formulate, analyse and solve problems met in economics and management
    • be able to formulate those problems with the required degree of formalism

    General competence

    • be able to communicate this knowledge, both in written form and orally, with accuracy and intuition.

  • Teaching

    The course will be taught in the auditorium and lectures will in general not be recorded. This means that student attendance and active student participation during the lectures is strongly encouraged.

    Lecture notes will be made available before each lecture.

    Short videos explaining specific topics and technical details may be made available.

  • Required prerequisites

    Students should be familiar with the material covered in the undergraduate mathematics course MET1 or in a similar course in their bachelor studies. This includes:

    • Functions in a single variable: derivation, sketching of the function in space, elasticities, integration.
    • Functions in several variables: partial derivatives, differentiating, optimisation without and with a side constraint.
    • Linear algebra: system of linear equations, matrix notation, inverse of a matrix, determinant of a matrix.

  • Compulsory Activity

    None.

  • Assessment

    The assessment is based on two compulsory assignments during the term (one for each part of the course; 2x25%) and a three hour school exam at the end of the term (50%). The compulsory assignments should be handed in individually or in groups of max 2 students. The two assignments have to be taken in the same semester. The compulsory assignments and the exam should be written in English.

    Expected release of the compulsory assignments will be at the end of the first part in September and at the end of the second part in October. The handing-in deadline is 2 weeks after release.

  • Grading Scale

    A-F

  • Computer tools

    Some use of Excel (Solver module).

  • Literature

    Part 1: Avinish Dixit (1990) Optimization in economic theory - 2nd ed (Oxford: Oxford University Press).

    Part 2: Frank Cowell (2005) Microeconomics: Principles and Analysis (Oxford: Oxford University Press).

  • Permitted Support Material

    • "Economist Mathematical Manual" (4.ed 2005) by K. Sydsæther, A. Strøm and P. Berck (chapters 1- 24) distributed in the examination room.
    • Calculator
    • One bilingual dictionary (Category I)

    All in accordance with Supplementary provisions to the Regulations for Full-time Study Programmes at the Norwegian School of Economics Ch.4 Permitted support material https://www.nhh.no/en/for-students/regulations/https://www.nhh.no/en/for-students/regulations/and https://www.nhh.no/en/for-students/examinations/examination-support-materials/https://www.nhh.no/en/for-students/examinations/examination-support-materials/

Overview

ECTS Credits
7.5
Teaching language
English.
Semester

Autumn. Offered autumn 2023.

Course responsible

Professor Fred Schroyen, Department of Economics, NHH (main course responsible).

Assistant Professor Lukas Laffers, Department of Mathematics, University in Banska Bystrica.