| Unit name | Capitalism |
|---|---|
| Unit code | HIST30115 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | H/6 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
| Unit director | Dr. Costaguta |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
none |
| Co-requisites |
none |
| School/department | Department of History (Historical Studies) |
| Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
Capitalism has made the modern world. As a mode of production and exchange, it not only informs market dynamics but also shapes social and gender relations as well as cultural and political systems. After falling out of fashion after the end of the Cold War, historians have recently re-engaged with the history of capitalism, often in a global perspective.
Combining classic approaches with new perspectives, this unit explores fundamental questions about the organization of modern societies. How did capitalism emerge and what led to its worldwide dominance? Does capitalism need free labour? How do global inequalities relate to the production and consumption of commodities? Does capitalism control the state or do national and international institutions shape markets? Can capitalism and the environment coexist, and how does the past shape the future of capitalism?
We will explore the dynamics of capital, labour, markets, the state, and culture from the early modern period to the present across a wide range of geographical areas to discuss answers to these questions.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of a range of theories and concepts relevant to the history of capitalism;
2. Apply an understanding of critical and theoretical reading to specific issues articulated in relevant primary and secondary sources;
3. Identify and present pertinent evidence to develop a cogent argument;
4. Present complex historical ideas in oral and written formats to a standard appropriate for level H/6.
Classes will involve a combination of long- and short-form lectures, class discussion, investigative activities, and practical activities. Students will be expected to engage with readings and participate on a weekly basis. This will be further supported with drop-in sessions and self-directed exercises with tutor and peer feedback.
1 x 2500-word Essay (50%), ILOs 1-4
1 x Timed Assessment (50%), ILOs 1-4
1 x Formative Presentation, ILOs 1-4
If this unit has a Resource List, you will normally find a link to it in the Blackboard area for the unit. Sometimes there will be a separate link for each weekly topic.
If you are unable to access a list through Blackboard, you can also find it via the Resource Lists homepage. Search for the list by the unit name or code (e.g. HIST30115).
How much time the unit requires
Each credit equates to 10 hours of total student input. For example a 20 credit unit will take you 200 hours
of study to complete. Your total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks,
independent learning and assessment activity.
See the Faculty workload statement relating to this unit for more information.
Assessment
The Board of Examiners will consider all cases where students have failed or not completed the assessments required for credit.
The Board considers each student's outcomes across all the units which contribute to each year's programme of study. If you have self-certificated your absence from an
assessment, you will normally be required to complete it the next time it runs (this is usually in the next assessment period).
The Board of Examiners will take into account any extenuating circumstances and operates
within the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes.
