IDS 2118 – The Gateway Course to the PPE Minor
This interdisciplinary course introduces students to the foundational ideas and methods of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). Students will explore key concepts and theories from each discipline, gaining a deeper understanding of how they intersect—and where they diverge.
The course examines questions such as:
- How do individuals make decisions?
- How do individuals choose in groups?
- How do institutions or “rules of the game” foster cooperation or resolve conflict?
- How are resources, benefits, and burdens distributed in society?
By analyzing these topics from multiple disciplinary perspectives, students come to see the unique strengths and limitations of each field—and how they can be more powerful when considered together.
Offered every fall, this course is open to all students.
For Fall 2026, the course code is IDS 2118. Multiple sections are available, but all sections meet Monday and Wednesday at 9:30am – 10:45pm in BEL 150E. As part of the class, students will also attend recitation sections. These recitations are led by former PPE students using faculty-designed content. It’s a great space for students to work out their ideas and build community. Many students have reported recitations as a highlight of the course.
Note: While not a prerequisite, we highly recommend taking Principles of Microeconomics (ECO 2023) in advance.