Aims

The aims of this module are twofold:

1.       To introduce students to the study of Political Economy
2.       To highlight and develop the skills that students require for effective study and learning
Related to these aims, this module seeks to:
1.       Examine and discuss key thinkers, theories and ideas in Political Economy
2.       Develop students' knowledge and understanding of fundamental questions and arguments in Political Economy
3.       Make students aware of the skills that are required for effective study and provide opportunities for further skills development
4.       Provide students with a foundation in knowledge and skills from which they can go on to take further modules in Politics, Economics and Political Economy

Outline Of Syllabus

The module introduces students to the study of Political Economy as it examines the life, ideas and legacy of key political economists, as well introducing fundamental concepts relevant to Political Economy. The module also discusses more contemporary ideas related to Political Economy. The module focuses on developing key academic skills, including finding appropriate literature, referencing and essay writing.
Topics to be covered may include:
capitalism, mercantilism, neoliberalism, globalisation, austerity
Key political economists explored in this module may include:
Adam Smith, Karl Marx, John Maynard Keynes, Milton Friedman, David Ricardo, Friedrich Hayek

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures will provide students with an introduction to the subject of Political Economy and an overview of the key thinkers, issues and debates in Political Economy. This will provide the basis for self-directed study and small group teaching.
Small group teaching provides an environment in which students can explore and deepen their understanding of the issues raised in the lecture material and discuss essential readings relevant to the module. Small group teaching also provides the context in which students will develop many of the skills outcomes associated with this module.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The professional skills assessments foster engagement with the module through the duration of the semester and provide students with the necessary opportunities for skills acquisition, thereby enabling students to successfully continue their university studies.

The essay will be evaluative in nature, requiring students to engage with higher order learning by evaluating a particular economic theory as expressed in multiple sources, assessing the current economic situation in the UK and developing recommendations for adoption of said economic theory in the UK. The essay is intended to be flexible in style, allowing students to access a variety of material, including websites, texts and blogs, beyond the traditional reading list.