American Capitalism and Its Critics

In the wake of the Great Recession, many Americans have become disenchanted with capitalism, wondering whether the market economy harms more than it helps. This course introduces students to writers, artists, and activists from the past who shared that feeling and in plays, essays, films, and photographs protested the rise of capitalism in the United States. We will explore issues of power, poverty, profit, and equality through in-class discussions and four writing assignments. Students interested in history, art, literature, and economics will learn more about class, capitalism, and the history of American politics.