Political Economy & Sustainability

Catalog description

Political economy seeks to explain how political institutions, the economic system, applied sciences, and social movements interact over time. This course will focus on how these dynamics generate varied outcomes in relation to the goals of sustainability, justice, and economic well-being. Students will examine the political and economic roots of the global sustainability crisis. Students will assess political and economic reforms, policy processes, and policy tools that might yield better outcomes. Students will also develop a greater understanding of possible action strategies from within civil society, the business sector, government, and/or international bodies for creating a transition toward a more sustainable society. Students will explore theories, evidence, and controversies associated with the political, social, cultural, and/or economic dimensions of a specific topic relevant to their doctoral interests. Additional contact hours will be met by specific coursework designed to be completed online.