ECON 265-01, 20th Century Political Economy, Spring 2006

Abstract

Some of the most interesting and important political economists and social critics of the twentieth century focused on the relationship between economic institutions and individual liberty. This course involves extensive reading and discussion of the works by and about such authors as Ludwig von Mises, Friedrich Hayek, Milton Friedman, Thomas Sowell, Joseph Schumpeter, and Ayn Rand. At the end of the course, students should have clarified their understanding of the issues that concerned these authors and their own position on these issues as well as the positions taken by the authors on these issues. It is my hope that you will learn as much from our readings and discussions about economics and liberty as I expect to. Your cooperation in this endeavor will play a large part in determining your grade: you will need to show up at every class on time and fully prepared to engage in informed discussion. If we are all to gain from this experience, it is absolutely necessary to do the readings, to devote plenty of time to thinking about the readings and preparing the weekly papers, and to participate fully in class.