Comparative Capitalism: Eastern and Western Models

Module description

This module introduces students to the key concepts, theories and issues in the comparative study of capitalism. The module surveys the interplay between politics and economics and its various forms in the advanced industrial democracies. The module provides students with concrete knowledge of such variations in key areas of economic policy making and their different economic, political and social outcomes. The module is structured in two main parts: The first part equips students with a thorough understanding of analytical approaches to comparative capitalism, which is built upon throughout the module. The second part offers students opportunities to analyse differences and similarities of capitalist economies with a focus on important policy areas, such as macroeconomic policy, financial markets, housing systems, welfare, labour markets and gender inequality.

*Please note that module information is provisional and may change from year to year.

Assessment details

One 2500 word essay (100%)

Educational aims & objectives

The aim of the module is for you to develop an understanding to the comparative study of capitalism. You will learn key features of capitalist political economies in affluent democracies as well as skills of investigating similarities and differences of these economies. The module also aims to provide you with comparative analytical skills.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module the students will be able to demonstrate intellectual, transferable and practical skills appropriate to level 6 modules and in particular will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of key concepts, theories and issues in the study of comparative political economy
• Demonstrate the ability to critically assess similarities and differences in key areas of economic policy making within and between capitalisms
• Critically assess the strengths and limitations of key analytical approaches
• Effectively communicate information and argument in oral and written forms

Teaching pattern

Two hours per week, one lecture and one seminar 

Suggested reading list

CLIFT, B. 2014. Comparative Political Economy: States, Markets and Global Capitalism. Basingstoke, Palgrave MacMillan

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.