Honors
HNRS 282-01: Introduction to Political Economy
Various schools of economic thought have challenged and continue to seek alternatives to the mainstream economic theory, neoclassical economics; this course is an introduction to contemporary heterodox economic theories. Classified under the broad term, political economy, these theories construe “the economy” differently, illuminating much that neoclassical economics leaves in the dark. This course will acknowledge the existence both of different theories of political economy and of numerous ways of understanding those differences, thus, celebrating the pluralism of heterodox economic discourses.
There are three parts to this course. Part I is an introduction to some of the basic themes of the course, which highlights the significant differences between political economy and mainstream economics. After discussing the premises and promises of neoclassical economics, we will ascertain whether “the market,” orthodoxy’s championed institution, delivers what it promises by looking at economic “facts.” Part II covers the basic concepts and methods of the various “schools” encompassed by contemporary political economy: Marxian, classical, post-Keynesian, radical, institutionalist, Austrian, feminist, and postcolonial. Finally, in Part III we will discuss the different consequences of these theories by examining some specific issues and themes such as economic justice, income inequality, globalization, and alternatives to capitalism.
Spring Term: 2008
Credits: 4
Fulfills: GE Requirement in Social Sciences (E)
Cross-listed: ECON-240-01
Meeting times: 2:30-3:50 MW
Instructor: Eray Duzenli
Open to: Sophomores/Jrs/Srs Only