Tools: Linear difference/differential equations; Simultaneous systems of difference/differential equations; Basic concepts and definitions of stability; Qualitative methods for the study of nonlinear difference/differential equations; Introduction to bifurcation theory; Introduction to chaos theory; The problem of the irregularity of time series: deterministic versus stochastic interpretation; Introduction to numerical simulation techniques for dynamical systems
Economic Applications: Definitions of economic dynamics; Equilibrium, growth, fluctuations, irregular dynamics: the dynamic varieties; The cobweb model and expectations; The neoclassical growth model; Some examples of linear models of the business cycle; Some examples of nonlinear/piecewise-linear dynamic models of the economy
Simulation of dynamic models of the economy using E&F Chaos