This course examines the social and political dimensions of economic globalization and integration. Through a sociological lens, we will analyze how economies are integrating and disintegrating amidst global social and political changes.
The course defines globalization as the compression of the world and intensification of global consciousness, highlighting concrete interdependence and awareness of the global whole. We will employ sociological approaches to analyze diverse aspects of contemporary globalization.
The course starts by exploring conceptual dimensions of globalization across disciplines. We then examine economic facets including neoliberalism, financial deregulation, and free trade. Next, we cover the globalization of culture, communications, science, and technology. Finally, we analyze the changing role of the nation-state in the globalizing era.
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Define and explain the sociological concept of globalization
- Analyze the social and political dimensions of economic integration
- Assess the impacts of neoliberal policies and financial deregulation
- Examine the globalization of culture, communications, and technology
- Evaluate the evolving role of the nation-state in a globalized world
Through lively discussions and stimulating readings, this course will enhance students’ understanding of the complex social and political changes occurring worldwide amid economic globalization. It will equip them with conceptual tools to critically assess globalization’s multifaceted impacts.