Ateneo - UPO

The course explores the Economic Analysis of Law, with a focus on Contract Law, Property Law, Tort Law, and Procedural Law. The first part provides an introductory overview of the economic approach to legal systems, highlighting its role in supporting policy makers and improving the regulatory framework that governs market dynamics. The course then examines a series of thematic applications: (i) Economic analysis of contract law, (ii) Property rights, (iii) Tort liability, (iv) Procedural law. Topics are supported by case studies and practical applications, aimed at guiding students through the material and fostering active and critical learning.

Cooter, R., Ulen, T., & Ulen, T. (2011). Law and economics. Pearson Series, 6th Edition. Boudewijn R.A. Bouckaert (2020). Economic Analysis of Property Law Cases Plus several scientific article on the treated topics.

The course aims to: (i) enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of the Economic Analysis of Law; (ii) develop the ability to apply acquired knowledge to interpret market dynamics and identify potential strategies adopted by firms; (iii) strengthen critical judgment in selecting appropriate techniques and models for analyzing legal-economic issues, as well as interpreting results; (iv) improve communication skills, encouraging students to identify practical implications and convey key messages to relevant stakeholders; (v) support autonomous learning, through the study of relevant literature and case studies reflecting the current Italian market and legal context.

The course does not require any particular background or specific prior knowledge. However, basic understanding of Law, Economics, and Mathematics is recommended.

The course combines lectures on the core topics of the syllabus with seminar sessions designed to foster active student participation. During seminars, students will present articles and case studies on issues relevant to law and economics, engaging in group discussion and critical analysis. Additionally, the course includes guest lectures by international scholars, who will contribute insights on selected topics of interest, offering comparative and interdisciplinary perspectives.

Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting the University webpage: https://uniupo.it/it/servizi/servizi-studenti-disabili-e-dsa . Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.

Student evaluation is based on two main components: 1. Attending seminars. 2. Oral presentation of an article or case study, delivered during the course and discussed in class. 3. Final written exam, aimed at assessing students’ understanding of both theoretical and applied course content. Both components contribute to the final grade, emphasizing analytical skills as well as communication abilities.

The course is structured into six thematic modules: 1. Introduction to the Economic Analysis of Law (theoretical and methodological foundations of the law-economics interface). 2. Economic theory of contract law (analysis of incentives, efficiency, and transaction costs in contractual relationships). 3. Economic theory of property law (examination of property rights as tools for efficient resource allocation). 4. Economic theory of tort law (economic models of harm prevention, liability, and incentives for lawful behavior). 5. Economic theory of procedural law (cost-benefit analysis of legal proceedings, access to justice, and alternative dispute resolution). 6. Case studies and practical applications (discussion of real-world examples to apply and test theoretical concepts).

By the end of the course, students will be able to: I. Understand how microeconomic theory can be used to analyze and evaluate legal rules. II. Apply economic concepts and models to the interpretation of legal frameworks, especially in the areas of contract, property, tort, and procedural law. III. Investigate the relationship between the legal system and market dynamics, assessing how rules and institutions influence economic performance.