Definition of inflation and deflation. Measurement of inflation and deflation using the Consumer Prices Index (CPI). Causes of inflation: demand-pull and cost-push. Causes of deflation: demand-side and supply-side. The consequences of inflation and deflation for consumers, workers, savers, lenders, firms and the economy as a whole. The range of policies available to control inflation and deflation and how effective they might be.

How changes in demand and supply, relative bargaining strengths, discrimination and government policy can all influence differences in earnings between workers whether they are: skilled/unskilled; primary/secondary/tertiary; male/female; private sector/public sector.