ECONOMIC SOCIOLOGY

The course introduces economic sociology as an analytical perspective for the study of economic phenomena, focusing on the relationship between economy and society and on the social and institutional processes through which capitalism is organised and takes shape in contemporary societies.

The course aims to develop a grounded understanding of the key concepts of economic sociology, with particular attention to the mechanisms through which economic systems are structured, regulated and transformed. In this perspective, the course addresses topics such as the organisation of markets, the role of institutions, the dynamics of economic systems and the forms of inequality that arise from them. The objective is to enable students to critically interpret the economy as a social phenomenon and to understand the processes that underpin the development and transformation of capitalism.

In terms of knowledge and understanding, the course enables students to:
• acquire and use the fundamental concepts for the sociological analysis of the economy, markets and economic institutions;
• understand the main theoretical perspectives in economic sociology;
• analyse the role of institutions and collective actors in shaping economic processes.

In terms of applying knowledge and understanding, the course develops students’ ability to:
• critically interpret key contemporary economic phenomena;
• analyse the transformations of capitalism, including from a historical perspective, and their social implications;
• apply sociological concepts to the analysis of markets, institutions and economic systems.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

Apply sociological approaches to the study of the economy
• use appropriately the key concepts and categories of economic sociology;
• interpret economic phenomena through established theoretical perspectives.

Use and compare theoretical perspectives
• analyse economic phenomena and processes through specific theoretical approaches;
• identify the theoretical frameworks underlying different approaches to the analysis of economic processes;
• compare alternative interpretations of the same economic phenomenon, highlighting their assumptions and implications.

Critically analyse economic systems and processes of development
• examine critically how economic systems are constructed and organised;
• analyse capitalism as a historical and social system, in its dynamics of development and transformation;
• recognise the role of institutions, collective actors and historical contexts in shaping economic processes.

A basic familiarity with core sociological concepts and theoretical approaches is recommended.

The course approaches the economy from a sociological perspective, focusing on the relationship between economy and society and on the social and institutional processes that shape economic systems and capitalism in contemporary societies.

The course is structured in two parts.

The first part introduces the main concepts and areas of analysis in contemporary economic sociology. It addresses topics such as the definition of economic sociology, comparative and historical approaches, the role of institutions in economic processes, and the analysis of markets and economic systems from a macrosociological perspective. This part provides the theoretical tools needed to analyse the economy as a social phenomenon.

The second part focuses on capitalism as a global historical system. It examines the processes through which the capitalist system has been formed, expanded and transformed on a world scale. Particular attention is given to the dynamics of the world-system, the organisation of the global economy and the role of successive hegemonies in processes of development and change. This part is intended to develop an understanding of the long-term dynamics of capitalism and its transformations.

Throughout the course, particular emphasis is placed on linking theoretical perspectives with empirical evidence.

Carlo Trigilia, Economic Sociology: State, Market, and Society in Modern Capitalism, Blackwell Publishing
Arrighi, G. (1990). The Three Hegemonies of Historical Capitalism. Review (Fernand Braudel Center) , Summer, 1990, Vol. 13, No. 3 (Summer, 1990), pp. 365-408
Wallerstein, I. (1983). Historical Capitalism (with Capitalist Civilization). London: Verso.

Assessment is based on a written examination consisting of open-ended questions, designed to evaluate:
• knowledge and understanding of the course content;
• the ability to use and apply concepts and theoretical perspectives in economic sociology;
• the ability to critically analyse economic phenomena and issues from a sociological perspective;
• the use of appropriate terminology;
• the ability to develop an independent and informed reflection on the topics covered, including through the critical reading of research materials or empirical cases.

written

The instructor is responsible for ensuring the authenticity and originality of all examinations and coursework. In cases of suspected academic misconduct, an additional on-site assessment may be required during the exams, which may differ from the standard format.

With regard to the grading scale (i.e. how marks are awarded), regardless of attendance status:
A. Grades 18–22 are awarded in the presence of:
• a sufficient level of knowledge and applied understanding of the course content;
• a limited ability to interpret economic phenomena and issues from a sociological perspective, and to formulate independent judgements;
• adequate communication skills, particularly in the use of the specific language of economic sociology.
B. Grades 23–26 are awarded in the presence of:
• a fair level of knowledge and applied understanding of the course content;
• a fair ability to interpret economic phenomena and issues from a sociological perspective, and to formulate independent judgements;
• satisfactory communication skills, particularly in the use of the language of economic sociology.
C. Grades 27–30 are awarded in the presence of:
• a good or very good level of knowledge and applied understanding of the course content;
• a good or very good ability to interpret economic phenomena and issues from a sociological perspective, and to formulate independent judgements;
• fully appropriate communication skills, particularly in the use of the specific language of economic sociology.
D. Distinction (30 with honours) is awarded in the presence of:
• an excellent level of knowledge and applied understanding of the course content;
• excellent judgement and communication skills;
• and, above all, the development of a strong critical understanding of economic and social processes.

The course is based on lectures, complemented by seminar activities and class discussions, including the in-class presentation and analysis of existing research. Seminar activities, together with individual study, are aimed at developing students’ ability to critically engage with research and the methods employed.

Attendance and active participation are strongly recommended.

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Poverty and inequalities" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development