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EC104: The World Economy: History & Theory

  • Claudia Rei

    Module Leader
  • James Fenske

    Module Lecturer
30 CATS - Department of Economics
Spring Module
Autumn Module

Introduction

This module explains how the world economy got to be where it is today, focusing on the success and failure of several key countries and regions, measured by the long-term changes in income and population. Students will complete the module with a strong understanding of the evolution of the world economy as well as the use of theory and empirical analysis in economics research, while developing analytical and writing skills.

Principal Aims

In this module, students will acquire a broad understanding of the development of the world economy over the last millennium up until today. Students will take the long view of changes in global income and population, and critically examine the forces that explain the economic success of some regions and the obstacles that have hindered economic advance in others. Students will scrutinise the interaction between rich countries and the rest of the world, and consider the role of domestic issues and foreign policy on economic outcomes. Students will complete this module with a strong understanding of the evolution of the world economy as well as the use of theory and empirical analysis in economics research. There are also opportunities to pursue areas of individual interest.

Principal Learning Outcomes

Subject Knowledge and Understanding:...demonstrate a familiarity with knowledge and basic understanding of: (i) the evolution of the world economy during the last millennium and specialist knowledge some areas of this that the student finds particularly interesting. (ii) Economic information: Knowledge of specific economic trends and patterns; understanding of particular problems and solutions in economic measurement. (iii) Research issues: Familiarity with contemporary empirical debates and latest research in some areas of economics. Understanding of how to approach an economic problem from the perspective of a contemporary researcher in economics.

Syllabus

The module will discuss a selection of topics. The following list is indicative.

• Introduction and Pre-Modern Growth: pre-1500

• Early Modern Period: 1500-1750

• The British Industrial Revolution: 1750-1850

• Living Standards: 1750-1870

• Globalisation and Industrialisation: 1870-1914

• The Interwar Economy: 1914-1939

• War, Recovery, and Decolonisation: 1939-1961

• Planning, Divergence, and Inflation: 1961-1979

• Economic Reform: 1979-2001

• The Contemporary World Economy: 2001-present

Context

Optional Module
V7ML - Year 1, LM1D (LLD2) - Year 1
Pre or Co-requisites
A-level Maths or A-level Economics

Assessment

Assessment Method
Coursework (100%)
Coursework Details
Assessment 1 (1200 words) (25%) , Assessment 2 (1200 words) (25%) , Assignment 3 (40%) , Seminar Participation (10%)
Exam Timing
N/A

Exam Rubric

There is no examination for this module in 2024/25.

Previous exam papers can be found in the University’s past papers archive. Please note that previous exam papers may not have operated under the same exam rubric or assessment weightings as those for the current academic year. The content of past papers may also be different.

Reading Lists