This subject deals with fundamental ideas about how world capitalism emerged and operates. It investigates the global system of trade, investment and finance, including the workings of the IMF, the World Bank and the WTO.

It deals with Keynesianism and its neo-liberal critics. Controversies over globalisation and its effects on living standards, and democracy will be followed. Of particular importance will be the investigation of the effects of modern globalised capitalism on underdeveloped countries. Finally, the subject examines the political economy of the movement of people across national borders – migrants and refugees and the political arguments it has generated 

On satisfying the requirements for this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to analyse and evaluate the various theoretical approaches to International Political Economy. They will also have a basic understanding of how the international economic system operates. This will be augmented by the strengths of the College in International Relations, Development Studies, the Politics of Development and the Sociology of Development.

2,500 word essay (50%) and final examination (50%).

Expected - attendance and participation in a two hour lecture followed by a one-hour forum each week

Voluntary - attendance and participation each in a three hour session which may include one of the following -

(i) a background lecture and discussion on matters related to but not essential to the course; (ii) a film relevant to the course followed by discussion; (iii) consultations to discuss essay topics.

Two first-year courses in Political Science or with the permission of the coordinator.

A reading brick will be made available to students.