2012-13 Catalog

Decorative graphic

Offering Description

Alternatives to Capitalism

REVISED

Spring 2013 quarter

Faculty
Peter Dorman economics, political economy, statistics
Fields of Study
economics, history and political economy
Preparatory for studies or careers in
economics or political theory, labor studies, management of nonprofit or public organizations, and organizing for social change.
Description

There is widespread discontent with the way capitalism is working in the U.S. and globally, but is there an alternative?  Can capitalism be replaced by a fundamentally different economic system, or is it only possible to make reforms within it?  This program examines this question in light of economic theory, historical experience and the results of noncapitalist experiments taking place today.  Its approach is open-minded, and students with a range of backgrounds and perspectives are welcome.  Although this is an all-level program, it is essential that students have prior exposure to economics, since much of the debate draws on economic concepts.  The program will also consider the politics and culture of noncapitalist alternatives.  Major activities will include extensive reading covering the historical roots of utopian thought, theories of noncapitalist economic arrangements, experiences with attempts to create them, proposals for ideas that have not yet been tried, and fiction in which alternatives to capitalism play an important part; we will explore these ideas in seminars, workshops, films, a research project, student governance and field trips to see local economic alternatives first-hand.

Location
Olympia
Online Learning
Enhanced Online Learning
Books
Greener Store
Required Fees
$200 for field trips.
Offered During
Day

Program Revisions

Date Revision
January 30th, 2013 New opportunity added.