Programme

The purpose of the course is to analyse the legal phenomenon through the economic lens and, more specifically, through the notions of neoclassical economics. The predictive ability, typical of the economic reasoning, allows one to determine which incentives are placed on individuals by different laws and, consequently, which effects should be reasonably expected from the adoption of a certain rule. The “Law and Economics” method aims at selecting efficient rules capable of maximizing the social welfare. The course reckons the most recent developments of “Law and Economics” and in particular addresses the “Behavioral Law and Economics” method, which supplements the rational choice theory with the insights of cognitive psychology.

Core Documentation

A.W. Dnes, Principles of Law and Economics, III ed., Edward Elgar, Cheltenham, 2018.

Reference Bibliography

A selection of readings will be collected by the Professor to support students' presentations.

Type of delivery of the course

The course development methods are traditional, through lectures and seminars. Moreover, during the course, a wide space will be dedicated to students' presentations on topics indicated by the Professor. Attendance is mandatory.

Attendance

Attendance is mandatory.

Type of evaluation

Student evaluation will be based on class participation and a final oral exam. The minimum grade is 18/30, corresponding to the basic knowledge of all parts of the program and of the technical language, to the maximum grade of 30/30 with honors, which is equivalent to excellent knowledge of the topics, excellent property of language, excellent analytical ability and practical resolution of the main legal conflicts in the field.