The Role of Government in Market Economies (RoGME)

RoGME is about one question: What is the proper role of government in market economies? We study the role of government as it plays out in the real world, using case studies to examine policies of current interest and importance. We align these cases with a rigorous theoretical framework that clarifies the circumstances under which government intervention in the market can improve outcomes. And we look beyond that textbook framework, mining the richness of the cases for additional layers of insight. Key to this effort is a focus on perhaps RoGME’s central lesson: to really understand a policy, you must know what its objective really is.

RoGME is designed for students who aim to lead private-sector institutions of systemic importance, influence public debates over government policy, or occupy policymaking positions at some point in their careers. The skills and knowledge it develops, however, are increasingly valuable to the broad range of businesses, non-profit organizations, and civil society institutions whose activities intersect with government policy. Moreover, exceptional private-sector leaders are now widely expected to provide leadership and insight on policy issues; those who contribute meaningfully to these debates will substantially increase their influence and impact.

RoGME Cases and Core Concepts

In the syllabus, I list the cases in the order they are taught, along with summaries, assignment questions, core concepts, mind-benders, and suggestions for further reading for each case. Further information on the structure and logistics of the course can be found at the end of the syllabus. Further discussion of the conceptual design of each module can be found in separate module notes for the course.