International Political Economy

This course examines the interaction between politics and economics in the international system, i.e. how international economic activity is affected by the political decisions rendered by states and how states are in turn affected by the international economy. We start with the broad outline of the evolution of international political economy (IPE), its post-WWII institutions, and some influential theoretical interpretations of IPE. These readings are posted on Blackboard. Then we will focus on the intricate relationship between politics and economics in the Third World (or, as it is also known, the Global South). We will explore some challenges these countries face, and analyzes South’s post-World War II development strategies. These readings are from Handelman’s textbook. Finally, we will end the course by analyzing IPE from the perspective of the North-South divide. Note how the Great Recession created a setting for both left and right protests politics in the developed northern countries. The vast majority of the countries of the world have been dealing with far more difficult economic problems since their entry into the international system. Vijay Prashad’s critical study introduces us to the Global South’s continuing attempts to make the international economic architecture more equitable, explains the emergence of the current “neoliberal economic order” and its impact on both the North and the South