The Covid-19 pandemic has severely disrupted the global economy, and, as many have pointed out, the structure of the present world economy had played a critical role in the spread and violent impact of the pandemic all over the world. In this seminar, we will study the nature of economic distress that the pandemic wrought, and the role that the capitalist economic system played in bringing on the pandemic. The key economic questions that we will examine in this context are: What form of economic crisis did the pandemic bring? How and why did the crisis spread, and how long might the crisis last? Who suffered most and why? And, what should be done to alleviate people’s distress and prevent future occurrences of such crises? In answering these questions, we will develop an understanding of economics as a field of study and examine how economics is applied to understand world issues that affect our collective material wellbeing, such as the pandemic.
This is an introductory course in economics and political economy; and, it has no prerequisites. The course has three requirements: [a] before coming to class, you must engage carefully with the assigned materials, and you must come prepared to class for informed and deep discussions; [b] you must participate in class discussions and take periodic in-class pop quizzes that test your comprehension of an assigned topic; and [c] you should not miss a class.
Learning Outcomes:
The course is designed for any student interested in knowing what economics is all about and how the subject can teach us to think critically and analytically about contemporary problems, like the pandemic, that affect people all over the world.
Throughout this course, you will expand your capabilities for economic reasonings, and progress in your capacities to inquire, engage and communicate.
Delivery Method: Fully remote
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 4
T/F 10:30AM - 12:20PM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 18
Course Frequency: Every 2-3 years
Categories: Advancement of Public Action , All courses , Environment , Fully remote , Political Economy , Updates
Tags: Covid-19 pandemic , critical analytical thinking , economics , inquiry , political economy , research and engagement