SOC 4360 - [Capitalism: Actors, Institutions, Politics, Culture]

(SBA-AS)

Spring. 4 credits.

Next offered 2014-2015.

R. Swedberg.

This seminar provides an advanced introduction to capitalism in the modern world. Students are introduced to theories and concepts that are helpful in analyzing capitalism, from Karl Marx to Pierre Bourdieu, over Max Weber, Joseph Schumpeter and Karl Polanyi. The historical evolution of capitalism is discussed as are topics such as varieties of capitalism and global capitalism. Separate meetings are devoted to corporations, financial markets, justice and the law, culture and ideology. Opposition to capitalism and alternatives to capitalism will also be discussed. Requirements include active participation in the discussion and the writing of a paper.