The politics of neoliberalism: a brief introduction

About this course

This course examines neoliberalism as a political and economic ideology, tracing its intellectual origins and its relationship with capitalism. It considers policies including privatisation, deregulation, austerity and free trade, alongside examples of early implementation, with particular attention to Latin America. Teaching combines lectures, student presentations and class discussion. The course also considers neoliberalism’s effects on inequality, the welfare state and the relationship between citizens and the state. Optional readings are available for further exploration.

What you'll learn

• Explain key ideas and origins associated with neoliberalism, including its relationship with capitalism
• Identify how neoliberal policies have been implemented from a political-economic perspective, with a focus on Latin America
• Describe how neoliberalism has spread and assess some of its significant effects on inequality, welfare systems and state-citizen relations

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for newcomers as well as learners with some background knowledge of politics or economics. A good grasp of English is needed to follow the online teaching. Participation involves listening to differing views, contributing to discussion and engaging with shared resources.

• Suitable for newcomers to the subject
• Requires a good grasp of English
• Includes student presentations and class discussion
• Optional readings support further study

Before you go

• A reading list is provided. Buying the texts is optional, and the source notes that many are available through public libraries or free online.