Academic Writing in Business Economics at Masters Level

Question 1: Since the recent Great Recession of 2007-2009, there has been increasing disillusionment with the free market system. Critically analyze the view that the free market system is the best and only realistic alternative for determining the allocation of resources in an economy. Question 2: Evaluate the economic efficiency of different market structures and their effect on consumers. (To answer this question, you must first explain what economic efficiency is and distinguish between the different types of market structures. Question 3: Examine the effects on businesses and the economy of government intervention in labor markets through the use of minimum wage laws and regulations that make it more difficult to lay off workers. In your answer, cite specific examples of such laws and regulations in a country or countries of your choice. Question 4: Examine the possible anticompetitive effects of mergers and acquisitions and evaluate the effectiveness of existing regulations aimed to reduce anticompetitive practices. (For this answer, you may choose to evaluate existing regulations in your country or area. If your country does not have such regulations, you should identify and evaluate the regulations used by other countries in the European Union or the USA.) Answer ONE of the following TWO questions. (Each question carries 100 marks) [Part (ii) of each question is the same.] Your answers to this assignment should include references to recently published journal articles or books, media news as well as information on the web. Where appropriate you are encouraged to challenge relevant economic theories providing your own justified views. Answer EITHER Question 1: (i) Critically examine the effectiveness of various approaches that may be used to reduce macroeconomic instability. Your answer should identify and show an understanding of the various policies that a country¡¦s government and/or central bank may use to achieve generally accepted macroeconomic goals. You are also encouraged to suggest your own ideas as to what should be done to more effectively attain desired macroeconomic goals. In your answer, you should explicitly identify macroeconomic goals that governments generally pursue. Are these the most important or do you think governments should aim to achieve other goals? (You are encouraged to make use of aggregate demand/aggregate supply analysis.) [70 marks] (ii) Some people (especially economists) argue in favor of international free trade while others favor protectionism. Critically examine who gains and who loses from free trade and protectionism. Overall do you think that international free trade is a good idea? [30 marks] Page 2 of 2 OR Question 2: (i) Critically analyze the short-term and long-term effects of a large budget deficit and public (national) debt. In your answer, provide an explanation of what the public debt is and how it can be financed. You should also critically evaluate the various measures that are usually recommended for reducing a budget deficit and national debt. (This question may be answered in light of the recent events and economic situation in countries such as Greece, Cyprus, Portugal and Spain.) [70 marks] (ii) Some people (especially economists) argue in favor of international free trade while others favor protectionism. Critically examine who gains and who loses from free trade and protectionism. Overall do you think that international free trade is a good idea? [30 marks]