Mathematics for Economists: An Introductory Textbook, Fourth Edition

Description

This book is a self-contained treatment of all the mathematics needed by undergraduate and masters-level students of economics. Building up gently from a very low level, the authors provide a clear, systematic coverage of calculus and matrix algebra. The second half of the book gives a thorough account of probability, optimisation and dynamics.The emphasis throughout is on intuitive argument and problem-solving. All methods are illustrated by examples, exercises and problems selected from central areas of modern economic analysis. The book's careful arrangement in short chapters enables it to be used in a variety of course formats for students with or without prior knowledge of calculus, for reference and for self-study. This new fourth edition includes two chapters on probability theory, providing the essential mathematical background for upper-level courses on economic theory, econometrics and finance. -- .

Malcolm Pemberton is Senior Lecturer in Economics at University College London Nicholas Rau is Honorary Senior Lecturer in Economics at University College London -- .

'In spite of the wide scope of this textbook, its presentation is clear and crisp. The materials are very carefully organised. The transition from mathematical principles to economic propositions is remarkably lucid throughout the book. If a first-year undergraduate student in economics comes to ask me which one, among many books on mathematics for economists, to buy for years to come, then I would definitely tell them that this is the one.' Chiaki Hara, Institute of Economic Research, Kyoto University 'This is a great text to learn from - the authors do an excellent job providing intuitive explanations, making connections between results and illustrating the use of mathematics in solving economics problems, and there is a host of solved exercises which perform two roles: providing essential practice material and introducing further applications in economics.' Andrew Chesher, Director of The Centre for Microdata Methods and Practice, IFS and UCL -- .