The History of Political Economy, 1776 to the present

New for 2024!

Ever wondered about the relationship between economics and the conduct of government? You have just entered the very real and fascinating realm of political economy. This research area focuses on the history of political economy from its eighteenth-century origins to the present. Students opting for this research area can explore and examine the major contributions of Adam Smith, David Ricardo, and John Maynard Keynes in shaping the field of economics as we understand it today, and focus on themes including mercantilism, comparative advantage, welfare economics, and the politics of inequality.

Intended audience

Research projects in this stream are open to students from all disciplines but may be of particular interest to students in Economics, Philosophy, Law, Political Science.

Previous knowledge

There are no formal pre-requisites for this course.

Assessment

Dissertation (no more than 6,000 words): 100% of the total.

Research Topics

The potential research proposals you could pursue on the programme are listed below. The specific research focus of your project will be determined and confirmed with guidance from your supervisor. The exciting research topics in this research area are:

1. Political economy prior to Smith
2. The writing and reception of Adam Smith’s Wealth of Nations (1776)
3. David Ricardo and the theory of comparative advantage
4. The economic thought of John Maynard Keynes
5. Thomas Piketty and the modern study of inequality

Prefer to follow a research idea of your own?

Take a look at the Open Stream.