Learning outcomes

Ability to synthesize works to a few key arguments. Ability to compare and put into perspective the different theses put forward. Ability to stand back critically from the arguments used.

Goals

To develop a critical perspective on 'knowledge' in economics, based on an articulation with the other human sciences, through a thorough integration of three different teaching activities (see detailed course description).

Content

This year's seminar will take the form of a day of reflection and discussion on 'Globalisation and Alternative Development'. We will be assisted in this reflection by the critical reading of two books: - Pietra Rivoli, Les aventures d'un tee-shirt dans l'économie globalisée, Fayard, 2007; - Francois Bourguignon, la mondialisation de l'inégalité, Seuil 2012.

Teaching methods

In preparation for this seminar, students are divided into reading groups, each of which reads one of the abovementioned books. After all members have read the book, each group prepares an oral synthesis of about forty minutes on what the book teaches us about the reality of globalisation and the possibility of alternative development (by preparing Powerpoint presentations). The book summaries will be presented during the seminar day. During this day, we will present a short introduction to the scientific approach in economics and logical argumentation, and we will also analyse a short text (an opinion piece) on the subject of globalisation, focusing on its logical articulation.

Assessment method

The evaluation of the seminar will be based on the quality of the presentation of the groups and on the attendance and active participation in the day presented above.

Sources, references and any support material

- Daniel Cohen, Richesse du monde, pauvretés des nations, Flammarion, 1997 (or 1999); - Francois Bourguignon, La mondialisation de l'inégalité, Seuil 2012

Language of instruction

French