Introductory description

In this module, we study the social, political, cultural and economic foundations of markets. We start from the premise that these spheres are inseparable and explore how they have impacted the development of the global and local economy. Whether it is the relationship between markets and states, the political power wielded by global corporations, or the persistence of global inequalities, this module will help you to understand some of the ways in which political and economic spheres are interlinked, even if we often find that public discourses and policy might treat them seperately.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Week 1: Introduction to political economy
Week 2: Colonialism
Week 3: Gender
Week 4: Markets
Week 5: Governance
Week 6: Reading Week
Week 7: Labour
Week 8: Money & finance
Week 9: Growth & sustainability
Week 10: Introduction to essay writing and recap

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate a basic understanding of how political economy contributes to the study of politics as a whole.
• Demonstrate a basic knowledge of different approaches to the study of political economy.
• Be able to relate scholarly literature theorising political economy and actual contemporary developments including very topical events.
• Be able to make informed comparisons of various strengths and weaknesses of different political economy problems and their solutions.
• Ability to critically analyse ideas, in writing, in relation to the issues influencing the transformation of the economy.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Subject specific skills

• Learn how to apply a Political Economy lens to current social/political/economic events
• Demonstrate awareness of different approaches to the study of Political Economy, and show their value as both competing and complementary explanatory frameworks
• Connect and interpret contemporary developments in relation to larger macro-historical processes.
• Evaluate strengths and weaknesses of different Political Economy problems (such as inequality, climate change, or labour exploitation) and their solutions.
• Identify and produce a written analysis of specific issues (technological changes, globalisation, finance, etc.) influencing the transformation of the economy.

Transferable skills

• Communication skills
• Lateral thinking skills
• Skills in the distillation and application of information and ideas
• Critical thinking
• Analytical skills
• Independent research skills
• Reflecting on what makes 'good' supporting evidence
• Problem solving
• Time management
• Information Technology
• Skills in academic practice