## FAQ

### What caused the decline in economics student numbers in Australian universities?
The decline in economics student numbers in Australian universities can be attributed to several factors, including the shift towards ‘business’ programs, the introduction of the relative funding model, and the lack of critical perspectives in teaching economics.

### What impact has the decline in economics student numbers had on universities?
The decline in economics student numbers has led to the closure of economics departments and the abandonment of economics degree programs in some universities. It has also resulted in a lack of diversity among economics students, with a concentration of students from advantaged socio-economic backgrounds.

### How has the teaching of economics changed over the years?
The teaching of economics has shifted from a critical perspective in the 1970s and 1980s to a more formulaic and restrictive approach focused on ‘haiku-like’ rules. This has led to a lack of critical analysis and debate in economics education.

## Conclusion

The decline in economics student numbers in Australian universities reflects a broader crisis in economics education. The shift towards ‘business’ programs, the introduction of the relative funding model, and the lack of critical perspectives in teaching economics have contributed to this decline. As a result, economics education has become largely propagandistic, leading to a lack of diversity among students and a reinforcement of sociopathological tendencies. It is crucial for universities to revamp their economics programs to provide students with a more critical and holistic understanding of the discipline. Failure to do so will only exacerbate the problems facing society and policy-making in the future.