EUR2100

European economic history since 1945

Geoff Spenceley

8 points
* 3 hours per week
* Second semester
* Clayton

Objectives On completion of this subject students should understand the main objectives of two different types of economic system (capitalism and socialism) in Europe after 1945 and be able to assess the reasons for the capacity of the capitalist economies to renew themselves, and for the failure and collapse of the socialist economies; understand the problems involved in integrating the former socialist economies into the capitalist framework; be able to research and communicate their understandings in verbal and written form.

Synopsis The subject examines the development of the West and East European economies from 1945 to the present day. It thus focuses on the development problems of the capitalist and socialist spheres, and particularly on their capacity to sustain economic growth while meeting the social and other expectations of the population. The subject uses case studies of particular countries to illustrate the major themes.

Assessment One essay (2500 words): 30%
* Examination (2 hours): 40%
* One tutorial assignment (1500 words): 30%

Recommended texts

Tipton F G and Aldrich R An economic and social history of Europe Macmillan, 1987