1) Briefly name four of the key assumptions that shape current mainstream economic theory, the foundation for the conservative and liberal policy perspectives on economies (see VOTE textbook chapter 4). (2)
2) In the broad overview version we have seen, what role for government would a conservative position for this role allow? Briefly address two of the factors we have identified, and discuss why they are important under the conservative perspective. (3)
3) Briefly explain two of the examples of positive and desirable characteristics of capitalist systems put forward by their supporters. (4)
4) Given the assumptions about scarcity and about individuals, their role in economies, and the functioning of markets, why are markets good solution tools for problems from the conservative / liberal perspective? Where can we find an example for a difference between these two perspectives? (4)
5) Briefly name three of the key assumptions that shape the radical policy perspectives on economies. (2)
6) From the radical perspective, how is the question What to produce? answered? (2)
7) In contrast, how is the question What to produce? answered from a conservative / liberal perspective, and why is it answered that way? (3)
8) Using the Six-Core Cube Guide introduced in chapter 5 of the VOTE textbook, assess the following problem. (Remember the radical perspective lies behind this cube, and is used to from that perspective identify the problematic aspects of a situation that are brought about by agents in a capitalist system, and offers an alternative approach for a solution based on the radical perspective.) (4)
When it comes to health care coverage, we estimate that about 85 million people in the United States are uninsured or underinsured.
9) Using the Six-Core Cube Guide introduced in chapter 5 of the VOTE textbook, assess the following problem. (Remember the radical perspective lies behind this cube, and is used to from that perspective identify the problematic aspects of a situation that are brought about by agents in a capitalist system, and offers an alternative approach for a solution based on the radical perspective.) (4)
Earth just had its hottest January in recorded history
10) What might a conservative / liberal position, what might a radical position suggest for the direction of technological change? (2)
(This is an open question. Just stay consistent with the assumptions behind those policy positions as they are presented in chapters 4 and 5 of the VOTE textbook that you find in the files reading material folder on canvas. Slide sets 9 and 10.)
