Capitalism and its Critics (L2084)
Capitalism and its Critics
Module L2084
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 5
Module Outline
Since the end of the Cold War, capitalism has become the dominant political economic system across the globe. This module examines the evolution of capitalism over time, its various forms, and its present condition. A central theme is the distribution of power in global capitalism, and what this tells us about the state of contemporary politics. Students will be introduced to the work of leading critical thinkers, addressing themes such as global inequality, plutocracy, racial domination, and climate breakdown. The module begins with classic texts before moving towards contemporary issues. It draws on political theory, political economy, and economic history.
Module learning outcomes
Understand the historical development of capitalism
Analyse different forms of contemporary capitalism
Critically reflect on how contemporary capitalism functions
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Essay (3500 words) | Semester 2 Assessment Week 2 Tue 16:00 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 11111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof James Hampshire
Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/171966
Dr Hannah Richter
Assess convenor
/profiles/341320
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.