Questions About Economics: Math Involved, Micro vs Macro, Interesting?

[latitude]

I'm quite interested in taking a course in Economics... I'm in second year and still have no idea what my major is, so I'm sort of experimenting at the moment. I know nothing of economics, so am wondering if any of you can tell me how much math is involved? Should i take Calculus II, Linear Algebra or Discrete Math to help me with it? Or Differential Equations? I have Intro Calculus.

Also, what is the difference between 'Micro' and 'Macro' Economics? I'm assuming small-scale and large-scale, but what is the difference between the scales?

Most importantly, are the courses interesting?

Thanks so much!

PS: I really don't want to take Calc II or Differential ;)

 

[hamburgler]

micro econ is the study of economics of smaller systems, such as individual countries and macro is the study of global economics.

 

[symbolipoint]

As long as you never studied an economics course before, you would enroll in an introductory course. The Math level needed would be minimal. If you studied beyond Introductory Algebra, you have more, much more than enough to handle the Math used in the course. The introductory Economics course will be mostly very easy. Work hard in it; get an A.

 

[Helios]

There are different theories of economics. The Austrian School regards economics as strictly a deductive science and mathematical models are regarded with adamant suspicion. In my opinion, Ludwig von Mises is the greatest economist. His book "Human Action" is a masterpiece and there is no math necessary. Read it and you will be superior to your professors. ;) Your school's party line will not likely be based on Austrian economics.

 

[zoner7]

Microeconomics typically concerns anything from individuals to businesses. The economics of a country is definitely discussed in macroeconomics, not micro. Then, macro will also include global economics as well.

There is absolutely no calculus required for introductory economics, micro and macro. I suppose you could use it, but the course basically requires basic algebra. As I understand, the more advanced theory courses require a basic understanding of integrals and derivatives.

Despite all this, when you take multivariable calculus, you will learn that real economic problems in the world rarely involve one variable. Many will include 10 or more. As such, multivariable calculus is an absolute necessity for graduate school. But yea, its nothing like a science.

 

[zoner7]

by the way, calc II is a necessity for an undergraduate economics degree. You need to know what an integral is.

 

[Topher925]

I took a econ 200 level course for a gen ed. I barely went to class, never bought the book or even took notes. I think I got the highest grade in the class. Moral of the story, show up to class with a pulse and you will do fine.

 

[symbolipoint]

I took a econ 200 level course for a gen ed. I barely went to class, never bought the book or even took notes. I think I got the highest grade in the class. Moral of the story, show up to class with a pulse and you will do fine.

Distracting from the main idea of the topic is not a good practice, but here is a curiosity question:
Why and How were you able to get the highest grade in that 200 level economics class?