Critical Social Inquiry 0142 - Intro to global Economy

This course is an introduction to the global economy. We will focus on the main forces shaping international trade and economic exchange between countries, and how global economic policies are formulated. In addition we will examine the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and the World Trade Organization. We will trace their trajectory starting with the Bretton Woods conference in 1944 until today. Some questions we will consider: what were the original functions of these institutions and have they changed over time? What role do they play in the economies of both developed and developing countries? What is their relationship with other important economic groupings, such as the G-20? Are they still relevant in today's global economy and should they be reformed or replaced? Students will be expected to complete a semester long research project on a topic of their choice and present their findings to the class.

Power, Community and Social Justice Multiple Cultural Perspectives Quantitative Skills Writing and Research