Doing economics / Peter Smith.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Defining economics -- What is economics? -- The origins and evolution of economic thinking -- The scope of economics -- Individuals and economics -- Competition and market failure -- Debates in macroeconomics and development -- Economics as a science? -- Economics and society -- Studying economics -- The economist's toolkit -- Preparing for university -- Economics at university -- Using economics -- Attributes of an economics graduate -- Prospects for you as an economics graduate.

Doing Economics offers a clear and accessible guide to the nature of Economics. Unlike many other mainstream disciplines, economics is a subject that many students meet for the first time when they arrive at University to study the subject at degree level. The way economics is studied at university level can vary greatly from economics as represented in the media, but this handy beginner's guide bridges that gap. This book answers such questions as: What is economics as a subject? What sorts of questions does it address? What skills are needed to become a good economist? Where will it take me? Students will be introduced to the key characters who contributed to the development of economics, as well as to the central ideas and concepts. This definitive guide outlines the attributes that make a good economist and presents a wide variety of employment opportunities that can follow the study of economics. Familiarising students with the important terms and issues, it is an essential volume for all students approaching this fascinating subject.-- Provided by publisher.