Robert O'Brien

Global Political Economy

Offering an accessible introduction to both the historical roots and the contemporary dynamics of today’s world economy, this seventh edition equips students with the knowledge required to make sense of the fast-paced discipline of the global political economy. Illustrating the breadth of the subject, the authors show how the national and the international interact, while also placing an emphasis on the historical evolution of the world economy in order to appreciate the nuances of today’s economy structures. It gives students a firm grounding in both traditional and critical theories of global political economy. Tracing the global economy from its early origins through each phase of a shifting world order, the book takes a non-Eurocentric approach, covering both traditional elements of the global economy (such as trade and finance) while also addressing important contemporary areas of concern, including social inequality, cryptocurrencies, populism and protectionism. Reflecting the latest empirical and scholarly developments, this new edition offers: -A new chapter on race in the global economy, in dialogue with the growing body of postcolonial literature in the field -A new chapter on health and the global economy, examining the interactions between the economy and health, and discussing the ongoing implications of COVID-19 -Analysis of key contemporary challenges including sustainable development, environmental concerns and security issues -Extensive companion website resources for lecturers and students, including multiple choice questions, mock essay questions and examples, flashcards and chapter-by-chapter PowerPoint slides. This authoritative and accessible guide to the global political economy is the ideal companion for students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, taking politics, international relations, and related degrees.