History
A history of global capitalism
An introductory course examining capitalism’s historical development through presentations, readings and discussion, with attention to states, labour, inequality, competition and technological change.
Choose a date before booking
Upcoming classes
1 class
About this course
The course traces major transitions from feudalism through mercantilism to capitalism, then examines how states, capital, competition and production have shaped its development. It also considers monopoly, mergers and acquisitions, race and inequality, and the effects of innovation and automation on capitalism’s present and future. Teaching combines tutor presentations with selected audio and video, in-class readings, discussion, and opportunities for questions and comments. Learners will also work with resources such as maps and census data to develop analysis and commentary.
What you'll learn
- Identify significant historical transitions in the development of capitalism
- Examine competing ideas and explanations surrounding capitalism
- Analyse historical resources, including maps and census data, to formulate comments
- Assess how state power, competition, race, inequality and technological change have influenced capitalism
Is this course right for you?
This introductory course is open to everyone and does not assume previous study or reading in the subject. Participants should be prepared to listen to and discuss perspectives they may not already know or agree with, and need a good standard of English to follow the course.
- Suitable for learners without previous study of capitalism
- Includes in-class reading and discussion
- Requires engagement with differing viewpoints
Before you go
- Learners should bring their own note-taking materials.
- Suggested background reading is optional, and additional reading related to weekly topics will be provided through Google Classroom.