This course is an exploration of political leadership and political outcomes and shows the interconnectedness between the two. It considers classical as well as contemporary theories of leadership. Through this course, the learner will recognise these significantly fundamental questions: Is there a leadership vacuum and how, in the global political community that remains to be created, can we foresee and foster the advent to power of leaders who will dedicate themselves to goals that include the building of a universal community that will safeguard the interests of all mankind? How, if such leaders appear, can they gain the requisite popular support for sustained endeavours directed to these goals?
The course addresses the fundamental principles undergirding the theoretical and empirical foundations of macroeconomics at the intermediate level. In this regard, it uses a combination of mathematical and intuitive analysis to provide some understanding of the subject area. The application of analysis that comes mainly from studies of the more developed economies, offers lessons that are valuable for all countries including the Caribbean.
The inclusion of this course is premised on the recognition that professional management is applicable at all levels of politics. The proper coordination, planning, organisation, direction, control of activities and negotiation of positions, have an immediate effect on the types of outcomes one seeks. It is essential for political science majors to know how people manage political activities, navigate the world of politics and achieve desired outcomes. Knowledge and “know-how” about these key abilities gives the graduate an advantage in a highly competitive field. Cultivating the attributes that are useful for political management makes the graduate equipped to work with political parties, governmental and non-governmental organisations and the media. Additionally, involvement in applied politics offers the political science major an opportunity to help talented individuals become effective public leaders. The curriculum covers the field of applied politics and encompasses consulting, campaigns, electioneering, lobbying, advocacy and negotiation, fundraising, political communication, political leadership and the attendant ethical dimensions. Political management like other types of management activities is goal oriented.
This course introduces the student to the unique characteristics of the Caribbean economy. It highlights the challenges and opportunities. The impact of globalisation on small economies of the Caribbean as well as the challenges and possibilities associated with economic integration within the region will be explored.
This course is directed towards learners in their final year of study. It covers current debates in global justice that address both theoretical and applied issues. All global society traditions of ethical analysis therefore have relevance here. The course examines global poverty, development, environmental and economic crises, refugee and humanitarian disasters, and the role of governmental organisations, non-governmental organisations and private international corporations. In particular, the course addresses whether wealthy nations have an obligation to assist poorer nations. The course is especially relevant for learners who desire careers in international development, humanitarian aid, international consulting or volunteerism.
This course examines the basic workings of the financial system and the main issues in monetary policy, primarily in developing countries. Emphasis will be on understanding the issues relating to interest rates, the tools of monetary policy, and the role of the Central Bank, in the conduct of monetary policy. The general economics and the structure of the financial system are also highlighted. Furthermore, the main monetary and financial issues confronting the CARICOM region as a whole are examined. For example, possible monetary union, intra-Caribbean investment and exchange rate systems are discussed.
The course takes a critical and holistic approach to global environmental politics and is designed to show how the instrumental and the intrinsic value of the environment are politicised. It examines the relationship between global political forces and environmental change and provides a comprehensive view of the roles and interests of governments and independent agencies. Considering that non-interference is the basic principle governing international politics today, the contents of this course will provide the basis on which the learner can examine fundamental questions like whether or not environmental protection provides a legitimate reason to interfere in the affairs of another state. The course takes a critical approach to politics of the environment. Learners who intend to become participants, decision-makers, advocators and planners in logistics, public management or international policy will benefit from this interface.
This course examines: the role of government in the economy especially in developing countries and the Caribbean; taxation (both direct and indirect) and its impact on the economy; the theory of public sector pricing and production; the design of public policy and the scope and limitations of public economic policy.
This course introduces the use of statistical analysis on economic data. It also focuses on the techniques used to compile indices, national income accounts and other reported economic statistics.
This course prepares students for investigating and applying a rigorous approach to research in economics in a professional setting and a real-life context. This course aims at developing students’ skills in theoretical and empirical analysis relevant to one or more areas in economics.