哈佛國際經濟學徵文比賽（HIEEC）

1. 介紹

哈佛本科經濟學會（HUEA）與《哈佛大學經濟評論》（Harvard College Economics Review）共同舉辦旗艦賽事－哈佛國際經濟學論文競賽（HIEEC）。 HIEEC為學生提供了一個展示經濟理論寫作能力和深刻理解的平台，幫助參賽者提升學術和職業技能，展現其經濟學知識儲備。

2. 哈佛國際經濟論文競賽主題

• Environment: Carbon taxes have been implemented in many countries, including in Europe and the United States, and are considered to play a significant role in regulating greenhouse gas emissions. However, there are criticisms regarding this approach, such as the argument that it is not effective because enterprises may keep polluting as long as they pay the cost. Additionally, the competitive advantage of imported products from countries without carbon taxes raises questions about its effectiveness. What unique effects can be anticipated from carbon taxes compared to subsidies for renewable energy? To address the concerns currently raised about carbon taxation, what potential alternatives could be considered?
• Inequality: Consider a country where income taxes are used to address socioeconomic inequality by taxing a portion of citizens’ earnings, typically in a way that is proportional to income. Now, imagine that this government is debating a policy shift that would eliminate income taxes for all employed persons, replacing them with a new consumption tax on goods and services, proportional to the value of each item purchased. Analyze the potential short-term and long-term economic and social effects of this policy shift within this country, as well as possible impacts on its relationships with other nations. Would you recommend this approach as a viable alternative to income taxes? Additionally, consider how at least two different groups (e.g., high-income earners, retirees, unemployed persons) might view this policy change. Would they likely support or oppose it, and why?
• Workforce & Education: As automation and technological advancements continue to reshape industries, the skill sets required in the workforce are rapidly changing. How should education systems adapt to prepare students for a future dominated by automation and artificial intelligence? Evaluate the potential economic impact of reorienting education around STEM fields versus soft skills and critical thinking. What changes can be made at both the policy and institutional levels to ensure a workforce that is resilient and capable of thriving in an automated world?
• Crypto/Finance: With the rise of cryptocurrencies and the potential introduction of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), the role of traditional central banks may undergo significant shifts. How might the widespread adoption of digital currencies affect monetary policy, financial stability, and global capital flows? Should central banks regulate or embrace these innovations? Discuss the potential benefits and risks of digital currencies for consumers, businesses, and governments, and analyze how monetary systems could evolve in response.

3. 獎項設置

• 前三名文章：經作者許可將在官網發表。
• 最終入圍名單將在網路上公佈，並由經濟學家進行評審。
• 「高度推薦」名單：獲得此榮譽的作者名單將在線上發布。