Why are some countries wealthier than others? Why are some countries democratic while others are authoritarian? Why do some democracies redistribute more than others? How do the forces of globalization shape national (and subnational) politics and policymaking? Why do certain policies designed to promote political or economic development succeed when others fail?

This course addresses these questions by applying key theories and concepts in comparative and international political economy to real-world country cases. Specifically, the course examines the interplay between politics and economics, exploring its effects at the local, national, and global level. In line with the ethos of the Master’s in Socioeconomics program, we will endeavor to design feasible policy solutions to complex problems in particular contexts.

This course is classified as "Examination-immanent" (in German, "Prüfungsimmanent," often abbreviated as "PI"). As a general rule, PI courses have compulsory attendance. However, one class can be missed without negatively affecting the grade. If known in advance, absences must be announced by email to the lecturer ahead of time (e.g., in cases of conflicting class schedules). Missing class for medical reasons (e.g., accident or illness) will not count against the participation requirements as long as a doctor's note can be provided. No makeup assignments will be provided in case of missed assessments. More details on absenteeism rules will be explained in the first class.

• 1 Short Video – Creative Illustration of Core Concept (15%)
• 6 Newspaper Articles – Reading Assignments (25%)
• 1 Team Podcast (20%)
• 1 Team Peer Review (5%)
• 1 Short Writing Assignment (15%)
• 1 Final Exam – Application of Learning Outcomes (20%)