Examining the Impact of Economics Education on Young Americans' Attitudes about the Economy and Economic Institutions.

Surveys have shown rising support for socialism among young adults. Responses indicate this shift could be due to a mistaken understanding of basic economics. We ask whether our students harbor the same beliefs, and if education in principles of economics changes students' beliefs. Our survey reveals that young adults in the US are not homogeneous. We also find a semester of economics has a significant effect on economic knowledge and beliefs regarding public policy. Basic economic education leads to a more accurate view of the economy and more optimistic view of the future, but these changes are only partly persistent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]