Teaching a pluralist course in economics: the University of Sydney experience

This article draws on more than three decades of experience in teaching a pluralist introduction to economics at the University of Sydney, Australia. It focuses particularly on the teaching of 'economics as a social science', the foundation unit of study that lays the basis for a full programme of undergraduate studies in political economy. The pluralist character of this introductory unit reflects concern for a pedagogy that emphasises critical inquiry while building a basic understanding of rival schools of economic thought. Students are encouraged to consider controversial issues and thereby enhance their capacity to deal with complex challenges in an uncertain world. The article includes extensive discussion of the means by which the effectiveness of a such course can be assessed, including questionnaire data, written assignments and students' subsequent career trajectories.