ECON BC3041 Theoretical Foundations of Political Economy

Professor Lalith Munasinghe

1. Course description:
In this course you will study the origins of the main schools of economic thought through reading primary sources: Adam Smith, Thomas Malthus, David Ricardo, and Karl Marx. The aims of the course are to make you familiar with the theoretical visions of these writers, to see how their thinking forms the foundation of modern economics, to link their thought to contemporary economic problems, and to improve your ability to write on political economy topics in an informed, critical, accurate and persuasive manner.

2. Required work:
Three analytical/critical papers of 3 pages, based on assigned readings. These papers will be submitted in two stages. A Writing Fellow will read, comment on and discuss with you in conference a carefully revised and proofread draft. I will read, comment on, and grade a further revision submitted with the original draft and the Writing Fellow's comments. Writing Fellows will arrange a conference to return your drafts with comments within one week of receiving them. Paper topics/questions will be handed out 1-2 weeks in advance of the first due date with the Writing Fellows. A final examination will be held at the regularly scheduled time.

3. Prerequisites:
One introductory economics course.