This subject is an introduction to economic concepts and contemporary economic issues. It introduces students to basic concepts such as markets and their operation, the behaviour of firms, the efficiency and potential failings of markets, the role of government, key macroeconomic problems such as recessions, inflation and unemployment, as well as contemporary fiscal and monetary policies. It illuminates concepts via application to contemporary economic issues and debates over different theoretical perspectives. This subject also exposes students to recent developments and policy controversies in economics.