COURSE Code: ECON 402
3 Credits
Course Description
The last two decades have witnessed a momentous shift in the relationship between business and the state. Amid talk of the end of big government, the post-World War II consensus in favour of a strong public sector regulating and supervising economic activity has come under attack from economists, public policy analysts, journalists, politicians, corporate elites, and even segments of the public. This course investigates this evolution, adopting an inter-disciplinary approach that synthesizes insights from history, political science, economics, and political theory. After setting out the theoretical framework underlying contemporary policy debates concerning government and business, the course will address specific issues such as macroeconomic stabilization policy, international trade, anti-trust law, environmental regulation, labour unions, pensions, corporate liability, consumer protection, health care and education, as well as fairness/equality policies. This course encourages students to reflect on the implications of the changing relationship between business and politics.
