An Introduction to Economic Dynamics

This book goes beyond the often-limited scope of other texts on economic models, which have largely focused on elucidating static equilibrium models. Comparative static analysis inhibits students from asking how the equilibrium position is achieved from an initial out-of-equilibrium position and limits their understanding of the dynamics that underlie such analysis. In this textbook, readers are introduced to ten well-established macroeconomic models – including Keynesian multiplier models, Samuelson’s multiplier and Solow’s growth model – and guided through the dynamical systems behind each model. Every chapter begins with an overview of the economic problem which the model is designed to help solve followed by an explanation of the mathematics of the model. Solutions are provided using simulation and visualisation techniques in MATLAB®, which are interwoven organically with the analysis and are introduced in a step-by-step fashion to guide the reader along the way. Appendices provide an introduction to MATLAB® along with all the necessary codes.