Aims

The effective operation of central banks is crucial to economic performance. This module covers the main issues surrounding the economics and political economy of central banking, including the case for central bank independence and the use of inflation targets.

Outline Of Syllabus

Topics covered include:
1) The link between central banks’ monetary policy and inflation.
2) A short-run macroeconomic model of the economy.
3) The link between inflation and output.
4) The importance of expectations.
5) Inflation bias, credibility and time inconsistency.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

• Lectures provide the basic structure of the methods and theories that are introduced and an overview of the current issues.

• Seminars provide an opportunity to enhance understanding of the theoretical aspects of the module.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The written unseen exam is an appropriate way to provide evidence of a student’s understanding of the current theory and practice of Central Banking acquired from studying various sources, their ability to compare monetary policy regimes and to critically assess key issues in this subject area.