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This module explores change and continuity in the world economy. Through the lens of political economy, which pertains to the complex relationships between society, the state, and the market, students debate and analyse the economic dimensions of contemporary international relations. Major themes of the module include: governance; globalisation; institutions; interdependence; power; conflict; cooperation; hegemony; and crisis. Although specific content may shift year-to-year depending on current events, a list of indicative issues includes: trade; development; poverty; global health; the financial sector; foreign investment; hunger; the energy sector; climate change; and the relationship between political economy and conflict. While the module emphasises relations between the global North and global South, it aims to push 'beyond' these categories from critical perspectives. The module reflects on the significance of historical colonial relations for the establishment and reproduction of the current global political economy. Students will critically examine the interests, relationships, and conflicts of individual actors in the global political economy.
Private Study: 128
Contact Hours: 22
Total: 150
Core to:
• BA in Environment and Sustainability
Optional to the following courses:
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations (Bidiplôme)
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Placement Year
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Foundation Year
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Year in Continental Europe or North America
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Language
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Year in Asia-Pacific
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with Quantitative Research
• BA (Hons) Economics and Politics
• BA (Hons) History and Politics
• BA (Hons) Philosophy and Politics
• BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics
• LLB (Hons) Law and Politics
Also available as an elective module and to short term credit students
Main assessment methods
Essay 3000 words (50%)
Exam (50%)
Reassessment methods
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*Exam will be online for the 23-24 academic year*
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Critically evaluate competing perspectives in International Political Economy
2 Identify the main intellectual traditions in the discipline and how they have shaped key historical events of the 20th century
3 Engage with contemporary debates on key issues in contemporary economic governance.
4 Analyse the key structures and processes of the global economy
5 Understand the main concepts and categories that inform the study of International Political Economy.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.