Economics and Society in a Deglobalized World

The global economy is undergoing rapid and dramatic change. Understanding the historical context of globalization and the current pressures driving deglobalization is essential for analyzing modern conflicts and policy decisions. This course provides a foundational understanding of Global Political Economy (GPE). You will learn the core theories of capitalism, identify the roles of key international institutions, and gain the analytical tools necessary to interpret contemporary challenges, from trade disputes to the race for technological dominance. What you'll learn: * Understand the core theories of capitalism, mercantilism, and institutionalism that define global economic interactions. * Analyze the historical evolution of globalization and the specific economic and political pressures leading to current deglobalization trends. * Identify the functions and power dynamics of major international economic institutions like the WTO, IMF, and World Bank. * Examine the concepts of supply chain resilience, friend-shoring, and resource nationalism in the context of geopolitical competition. * Apply foundational GPE concepts to interpret contemporary issues, including technological sovereignty and data governance. * Practice reading and interpreting policy documents and economic indicators related to international trade and development. The course begins by defining key terms and exploring foundational economic theories. It then traces the rise and plateau of globalization before focusing on current geopolitical dynamics, power structures, and the impact of technological change on global governance. This course is designed for absolute beginners with no prior knowledge of economics or political science. If you are curious about how global politics and markets intersect, this is the perfect starting point. Start building your comprehensive understanding of the forces shaping the world economy today.