Courses
Principles of Political Economy
This three-part study is a survey of basic principles that will give the student a thorough grounding in fundamental economic concepts. Each part is complete in itself, and may be pursued separately — but the entire series is well worth your time, and will bring you the fullest benefits.
The basic textbooks for each course are works of the great American economist Henry George. Though his books first appeared in the late 19th century, they are highly applicable to today’s conditions, because the principles with which they deal are universal. The basic problem which George set out to solve in his book Progress and Poverty is still today’s basic problem: Why, in spite of progress, does poverty persist?
Our approach to economic study is fundamental and non-technical. Terms are defined, basic economic laws are sought and basic principles are applied. Supplemental readings are offered throughout — applying the principles to current conditions and answering frequently asked questions.
Get started with Understanding Economics — OR — Sign up for the full 3-course series for FREE Understanding Economics Globalizaion and Trade Economic Science
Course
Understanding Economics
Decode the forces shaping our world. In Understanding Economics, you’ll explore how wealth is distributed, what drives market boom-and-bust cycles, and the relationship between land, justice, and capital. Discover why civilizations decline—and how Henry George’s timeless economic thought provides the remedies we need for the future.
Course
Globalization and Trade
Master the global forces rewriting our economy. In Applied Economics: Globalization and Trade, you’ll tackle the free trade vs. protectionism debate, decode how money and trade drive development, and dissect comparative advantage. Explore alternative approaches to today’s toughest challenges—from global supply chains to environmental sustainability.
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Economic Science
Discover the foundational laws governing global markets. This course breaks down the nature of wealth, capital, and economic value. From the processes of production and trade to the power dynamics of privilege, you’ll gain a clear framework for understanding how money moves through society and shapes modern macroeconomics.
Note on the Authorship of Readings
This is a collaborative effort. Courses based on Henry George’s works have been offered for many decades, and many aspects of the writing that appears herein have a traditional character. For example, sentences and paragraphs that appear in this three-course series can be found verbatim, or nearly so, in the Henry George Institute curricula written by Robert Clancy in the early 1970s. The current version, however, has been produced by HGI Program Director Lindy Davies, and all the unattributed writings it contains are his. Mike Curtis, Fred Foldvary and Mason Gaffney have contributed sections or been quoted in this course’s readings. Sections they contributed are designated by an introductory note, and brief quotations by footnotes.
People own what they
Produce.
The rest belongs to
all of us.
Henry George’s bold insight: land value is created by society, not by landlords — so it should benefit everyone, not just those who own it.