Politics

Capitalism and its Critics

Module code: L2084
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Seminar
Assessment modes: Essay

On this module, you’ll examine the evolution of capitalism over time, its different forms and its current condition. A key theme is the distribution of power in global capitalism and what this reveals about contemporary politics.

You’ll explore the work of leading critical thinkers, addressing themes such as:

• global inequality
• plutocracy
• racial domination
• climate breakdown.

We’ll begin with classic texts before moving towards modern issues, drawing on:

• political theory
• political economy
• economic history.

Module learning outcomes

• Understand the historical development of capitalism
• Analyse different forms of contemporary capitalism
• Critically reflect on how contemporary capitalism functions