Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2018 - ECON 102 D100

The World Economy (3)

Class Number: 3267

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2018: Fri, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 13, 2018
    Thu, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An overview of the broad economic trends in the development of the world economy over the last five decades with reference to the major debates related to economic interdependence, development and growth, globalization, and the role of the major multilateral economic institutions (IMF, World Bank, OCED, ILO, UN). (lecture/tutorial) Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This breadth course will cover three main topics: 
       

  • Understanding globalization: The invention of the steam engine had large impacts on globalization and so has the internet. Understanding the different phases of globalization is telling us a lot about international specialization, development policies and who is gaining/losing from globalization. It also helps understanding where globalization is heading.
  • The future of work: some people are optimistic about the future of work; others are pessimistic that there won’t be enough jobs to go around. We’ll review what we know today about how technology is shaping work and the labor force.
  • Environmental adjustments and economic activities (if time permits): The US pulled out of the Paris agreement because it is a `bad (economic) deal’. Other countries find it is an important milestone. This part will review the economic issues associated with environmental adjustments.   


This course provides an introduction to a few big issues that are likely to shape up the world economy over the next decades and that are relevant to all social sciences, history, business, communication and to anyone looking for a deeper understanding of the world economy.

Grading

  • Midterm exam 35%
  • Final exam 50%
  • In-class participation and questions 15%
  • These grading weights are subject to changes to be announced during the first week of classes.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

There is no required textbook for this course and no weekly tutorial. The relevant material will be in the form of online readings, podcasts and videos.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

***  NO TUTORIALS DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF CLASSES***

Students requiring  accomodations as a result of a disability must contact the  Centre for Students with Disabilities  at 778 782 3112 or csdo@sfu.ca 

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS