Special Topics in Political Science (490-0-22)

Topic

American Political Economy

Instructors

Elizabeth L Thom
847/467-7443
2001 Sheridan Road, 3207
Office Hours: By appointment only

Meeting Info

2001 Sheridan POLI SCI 3228: Mon 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

This course examines the interplay between markets and political institutions in the United States. We begin by surveying the political and economic development of the U.S. from the founding to westward expansion and the Great Migration. Then, we turn to some of the distinctive institutional arrangements that emerged from these processes—federalism, racial hierarchy, and organized business interests—and their consequences for the provision of public goods, inequality, and democracy. We put the American experience in comparative perspective by drawing on key frameworks from studies of Comparative Political Economy (CPE) and the growing field of American Political Economy (APE). Our goal is to analyze where existing theories fall short and to identify promising areas for future research. The final assignment for the course will ask students to propose and develop a chapter for a hypothetical new APE edited volume.

Registration Requirements

Attendance at first class required

Evaluation Method

In-class participation, short writing responses, final written assignment.

Class Materials (Required)

The American Political Economy: Politics, Markets, and Power
The required text is also fully available through the library.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for Graduate Students.