An Introduction to Mathematics for Economics

by Akihito Asano

Overview

An Introduction to Mathematics for Economics introduces quantitative methods to students of economics and finance in a succinct and accessible style. The introductory nature of this textbook means a background in economics is not essential, as it aims to help students appreciate that learning mathematics is relevant to their overall understanding of the subject. Economic and financial applications are explained in detail before students learn how mathematics can be used, enabling students to learn how to put mathematics into practice. Starting with a revision of basic mathematical principles the second half of the book introduces calculus, emphasising economic applications throughout. Appendices on matrix algebra and difference/differential equations are included for the benefit of more advanced students. Other features, including worked examples and exercises, help to underpin the readers' knowledge and learning. Akihito Asano has drawn upon his own extensive teaching experience to create an unintimidating yet rigorous textbook.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521189460
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	11/08/2012
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	281
Product dimensions:	7.48(w) x 9.65(h) x 0.51(d)

About the Author

Akihito Asano is Associate Professor of Economics at the Faculty of Liberal Arts, Sophia University, Tokyo. He has previously held positions at the University of Melbourne and the Australian National University (ANU). In 2008 he received the Award for Teaching Excellence from the College of Business and Economics at the ANU. He currently teaches introductory and intermediate microeconomics, international trade and introduction to game theory to undergraduate students and mathematical techniques for economics to graduate students.

Table of Contents

1. Demand and supply in competitive markets; 2. Basic mathematics; 3. Financial mathematics; 4. Differential calculus I; 5. Differential calculus II; 6. Multivariate calculus; 7. Integral calculus; Appendix A. Matrix algebra; Appendix B. An introduction to difference and differential equations.

Editorial Reviews

'This outstanding textbook is the by-product of lecture notes written by a dedicated teacher. Mathematics is carefully exposited for first-year students using familiar applications drawn from economics and finance. By working through the problems provided, students can overcome any fear they might have of mathematics to make it an enjoyable companion.' Chris Jones, Australian National University

'In this well-written text, mathematical techniques are introduced together with basic economic ideas, underlining the fact that mathematics should not be treated separately, but is an integral and essential part of economics. The style is friendly and conversational, and the mathematical techniques are treated rigorously, with many clearly presented examples. Dr Asano is adept in pinpointing those areas which students find difficult, making this a very useful and comprehensive text for anyone undertaking the study of economics.' Valerie Haggan-Ozaki, Sophia University

'Dr Asano is a renowned teacher who transformed the course he has taught on this subject into a popular, albeit challenging, course that laid an excellent foundation for Economics majors. He has brought this style to this textbook and students will find it very thorough in its treatment of each topic, and … they will learn by doing as much as by reading. Students new to economics will find the style easy to follow and this textbook will facilitate the teaching of this material for lecturers too.' Martin Richardson, Australian National University

From the Publisher