Course overview
To explain the transformation of greed from being one of the seven deadly sins to the socially-useful and morally acceptable drive of self-interest. The course will cover, among other things, an exploration of the following institutions, phenomena and ideas: self-interest; the division of labour; markets; luxury; the proper role of the state: liberalism and its critics; progress; virtue; classical communitarianism, anarchism, utilitarianism, classical political economy, the guaranteed basic income and the Grameen Bank; and the ideas of such important thinkers as John Locke, Adam Smith, Karl Marx and Max Weber.
- Self-Interest Before Smith
- From Smith To Marx
- The Triumph Of Liberalism
Course learning outcomes
- An ability to understand the ideological background of Western liberal capitalism as well as the arguments of its critics
- Enhanced skills in research, synthesis, organisation and presentation of information
- Familiarisation with the research skills necessary for working with primary sources
- Demonstrated ability to work independently
- Critically evaluate arguments
- An ability to conduct critical textual analysis
Availability
Class details
Adelaide City Campus East
Group 1
Class number 63740
Section LE01
Size 80
Available 80
Class number 64094
Section TU04
Size 23
Available 23
Class number 64095
Section TU03
Size 23
Available 23
Class number 64097
Section TU01
Size 23
Available 23
Fee calculator
To display course fees for 2027, select your status and program below:
Study Abroad student tuition fees are available here.
Only some Postgraduate Coursework programs are available as Commonwealth Supported. Please check your program for specific fee information.
If you are studying in a Professional Pathway Psychology, Clinical Psychology or Social Work program, please refer to the Student Contributions amounts published here.
The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.