Order and Planning in the History of Economic Thought
ECON 256
Spring 2011 not offered
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This course examines selected episodes in the history of political economy through the theoretical lens offered by the contrast between spontaneously ordered social systems, in which outcomes arise independently of the intentions of the participants, and centrally planned systems, whose outcomes reflect the design of a purposeful planner. Through this lens, we consider still-unresolved questions about the nature of social order, the relation of the individual to the collective, and the roles of knowledge and purpose in economic systems. After an introduction to the theoretical perspective itself, focused on the Socialist Calculation Debate of the 1930s, we turn to a series of specific topics, including industrialization in the United States, Taylorism, planning for war, Marx and his successors, and the Keynesian Revolution. |
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Essential Capabilities:
Writing
Several writing assignments to improve writing skills
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
None |
| Course Format: Lecture / Discussion | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: ECON110 OR ECON101 |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (ECON-MN)(ECON) |
Major Readings:
Readings are drawn from a variety of sources in the history and philosophy of economics, and from the economic history of the United States and Europe. There will be a few books for purchase, by such authors as Robert Heilbroner, Robert Overy, Karl Marx, V.I. Lenin and Frederick Winslow Taylor. Remaining readings will be available on electronic reserve.
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Examinations and Assignments:
In addition to regular class attendance, there will be four six- to seven-page essays required. There is no final examination. |
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