Social Theory and History: Histories of Capitalism

(4 Credits)

Capitalism is once more a keyword of scholarly and popular contention. The course introduces students to dominant approaches to capitalism across distinct conjunctures of the twentieth century. Course readings and class discussion explore the major frameworks (Marxist, Gramscian, World-systemic, economic anthropological, Feminist, and Eco-socialist), that have animated efforts to comprehend capitalism as a dynamic historical phenomenon. This broad-gaged survey aims to elucidate the shifting methods and concepts (from “creative destruction” and “imperialism” to “uneven development” and “racial capitalism”) that have gained prominence at different junctures. The course concludes with a focus on the renewal of feminist theories of capitalism and the emergence of political ecological critiques of contemporary capitalism.