Capitalism, liberalism and democracy

Module description

Does democracy undermine successful economic policy, or does capitalism tend to erode democracy? Do markets enable liberalism, or hinder it? Is it acceptable that economic power translates into political power? This module is designed to allow students the chance to study these and other important questions on the relationship between capitalism, liberalism and democracy. Looking towards the 'big picture', the module allows students to go into depth on theory, concepts and ideas from the past and present: we unpack and analyse a different key author or tradition each week to find out what they said, what others thought about it, and how it is relevant to politics and economics in practice. This module is suitable for all students with an interest in political economy and international political economy in general, and particularly those with an interest in theory and concepts. It also provides useful training for students wishing to write dissertations with sophisticated theoretical engagement.

Assessment details

3,500-word self-reflection assignment - 100%

Educational aims & objectives

• To introduce students to a set of key theoretical debates and controversies in international political economy and broader political economy traditions;
• To enable students to identify the political implications of different theoretical approaches to money in practice
• To develop students' understanding of interrelationship between economic and political questions in the study of politics as a whole
• To offer students the chance to show independence of thought, including reflecting on their own learning during the module

Learning outcomes

1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of key theoretical and conceptual debates in political economy and international political economy traditions covered in the module;
2. Demonstrate advanced understanding of the interrelationship between economic and political questions, theories and issues;
3. Create critical responses to topics covered in the module that show the ability to think independently;
4. Demonstrate the ability to reflect on one's own learning, including understanding one's own strengths and weaknesses in study of module topics.

Transferable skills:

• Develop social, political and economic awareness and show open-mindedness by engaging with different perspectives on the relationship between capitalism, liberalism and democracy
• Think independently by creating critical responses to module topics
• Learn independently and exercise self-discipline by undertaking independent study outside of classes
• Apply metacognition and reflection and become aware of own strengths and weaknesses by devising own assessment pattern and describing its rationale with regard to learning experienced on the module.

Teaching pattern

Two hours per week, one lecture and one seminar 

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.