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