Comparative Economic Systems

This course describes the pillars and mechanisms upon which market capitalism functions. As the dominant socio-economic system, understanding these aspects is indispensable for comprehending today's world and one's own role in it. Drawing from economics and other social science disciplines, students will trace history, balance theory, and practice to explore market capitalism's strengths and shortcomings, as well as the role of institutions and economic agents that make it function as it does: international organizations, nation-states, transnational companies and civil society. Using diverse case studies, students will analyze how capitalism can vary in different contexts. Students will employ comparative methods to explore these differences within capitalism, as well as other socio-economic systems, particularly socialist economies. The role of culture and religion in these systems is also considered.