Political Economy of International Trade

In this course we will examine the political economy of international trade with a focus on economic development and globalization. Emphasis will be placed on the distributional consequences of trade policy, as well as the relationship between trade, international organizations, and international law. Readings will explore the role of international trade in the history of industrialization, theories of development, and contemporary concerns regarding labor rights, the environment, and public health. Students will be encouraged to investigate both new and recurrent distributional issues related to economic growth. The course will assume knowledge of some basic concepts from economics and political science, but no prerequisite coursework is required. 3 hrs. sem. (International Relations and Foreign Policy)/