Institutions, Economics and Change

Module description

This module explores the importance of institutions to understand complex economic phenomena occurring in a context of increasing economic interdependence among countries. To do so, the module will begin by learning two key main concepts: globalization as a process of economic interdependence and how political institutions emerge and change. Secondly, the focus will be on analysing the relationship between democracy and globalisation. In this part of the module, the main topics will cover the relationship between globalisation and political accountability; the surge of technocracy and the tension with the democratic ideal of self-government; and the socio-economic consequences of globalisation. These topics will provide the basis to understand more complex problems like Brexit, the collapse of establishment parties or the rise of populism.

This module is ideal for students interested in understanding the political processes behind globalization. Although, this is a course dealing with the economic issues, I will use a political science approach. By this, I mean that most of the attention will rest in understanding political processes and the actors behind it. This course is, then, a perfect introduction for more advanced courses in comparative political economy or comparative politics.
This module is also demanding and I expect participants not only to do the readings but mostly to think critically on them. Students will be required to read technical articles and books which contain statistical analysis and some basic formal modelling. In this regard, I do expect students to apply and use the knowledge acquired in Statistics for Political Science I or Quantitative Methods.

Assessment details

2,500-word essay (50%) & 2-hour exam (50%)

Educational aims & objectives

This module offers an introduction to issues of comparative politics and international political economy and aims to:

• Provide an overview of the main debates linking political and economic outcomes in the context of globalisation.

• Improve students’ understanding of the roles of political and economic institutions in a context of economic interdependence

• Introduce the logic of institutional formation and change.

• Enable students to understand the tension between globalisation and democracy.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this module students will be able to:

• Understand the main debates on the causes and consequences of globalization.

• Understand the origin and change of political institutions.

• Link how political institutions shape economic outcomes and how the economy may trigger institutional change.

• Understand quantitative and formal theory approaches when analysing the relationship between political institutions and economics.

Teaching pattern

[Indicative] Weekly Topics

1. Introduction.
2. Globalisation.
3. Institutions.
4. Institutions, Development and Political Change
5. Preparing your essay.
6. Reading Week
7. Globalisation and democracy.
8. Winners and Losers of Globalisation.
9. Hyperglobalisation and individual disillusionment.
10. Governance in a globalised world.
11. Conclusion.
12. Essay due

Module description disclaimer

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