Categories
Chicago Exam Questions

Chicago Economics. Ph.D. Exam Questions by Viner in Theory. 1928

Transcription of handwritten draft of examination questions prepared by Jacob Viner.

Ph.D. Examination in Economic Theory

Spring, 1928             Viner[added and circled]

 

Answer questions 1 to 4, inclusive, and four others.

  1. Discuss the scope and method of the English classical school in the light of modern criticism therof.
  2. Explain, and discuss the validity, purpose, and usefulness of any three of the following Marshallian concepts:
    (a) quasi-rent;
    (b) consumers’ surplus;
    (c) unit elasticity;
    (d) maximum satisfaction;
    (e) representative concern.
  3. Describe the cost and supply aspects of the long-run equilibrium conditions under competition for two joint-products, when the proportions in which the two products are produced are: (a) non-variable, (b) variable.
  4. Discuss the contributions to economics of any five of the following:(a) Aristotle; (b) Cantillon ; (c) David Hume; (d) Cournot; (e) Senior; (f) J. B. Say; (g) Von Thunen; (h) Leon Walras.
  5. What is the significance of margins in price theory.
  6. “The price-processes of the market-place are a product of the institutional framework, and cannot be explained independently of the long evolution of the institutional framework of modern economic society which has molded them” Discuss.
  7. In what respects did the Canonists carry economic inquiry beyond its previous status?
  8. Discuss the problem of the relationship of the rate of physical productivity of capital goods to the rate of interest; or
    Discuss the supply curve of saving.
  9. Compare the wage theories of Adam Smith, Ricardo, and John Stuart Mill.
  10. Outline a research project for either:
    (a) The statistical verification of an important proposition in price theory, or
    (b) A statistical study in some phase of distribution theory.

Source:  University of Chicago. Department of Economics. Records, [Box 35, Folder 14], Special Collections Research Center, University of Chicago Library.

Image: University of Chicago Photographic Archive, [apf1-08489], Special Collections Research Center, University of Chicago Library.