166-012 Australian Political Economy

Usually one first-year politics subject.

This subject studies the contemporary Australian political economy, including the impact of globalisation and the change from protective state to competition policy and contracting out. Topics include liberal and critical theories of political economy relevant to Australian history and practice; the roles of government and markets; the impact of globalisation; current debates over deregulation and privatisation; and institutional restructuring. Students who complete this subject should have an understanding of liberal and critical theories of political economy that are relevant for understanding Australian history and practice; be familiar with the Australian political economy tradition and current debates over the roles of government and the market; have studied some of the major issues of public policy and economic management facing Australia today; and have the skills to critically evaluate proposals for restructuring government and adopting market solutions for public purposes.

• be able to research through the competent use of the library and other information sources, and be able to define areas of inquiry and methods of research in the preparation of essays;

• be able to conceptualise theoretical problems, form judgements and arguments and communicate critically, creatively and theoretically through essay writing, tutorial discussion and presentations;

• be able to communicate knowledge ideologically and economically through essay writing and tutorial discussion;

• be able to manage and organise workloads for recommended reading, the completion of essays and assignments and examination revision;

• be able to participate in team work through small group discussions.

A short review paper of 500 words 15% (due mid-semester), a research paper of 1500 words 40% (due end of semester), and a 2-hour exam 45% (held during the examination period).

A subject reader will be available.