Contents of the course:

The course introduces core themes of feminist economics and feminist economic policy. It provides an overview of different approaches in feminist economics and macroeconomic policies. Selected topics of economic policy are examined more in detail from a feminist perspective, this includes conceptualization and policies in the context of work, care and labour markets, fiscal and budgetary policies as well as current trends in macroeconomic policies. Furthermore, a range of feminist approaches and alternatives for economic transformation are reviewed and discussed.

Learning objectives of the course:

The main aim or the course is to activate students to engage with feminist economic thinking to get an overview of key contributions of feminist macroeconomics as well as deeper insights into research on selected economic policy topics from feminist perspectives. Students are encouraged to recognize what makes the difference between conventionally gender-blind economics and economic policy on the one and gender sensitive feminist approaches on the other side. Students should widen their perspectives on what is the economy and on key concepts in economics and critically engage in economic policy debates.

Teaching design:

In the course we use a mixture of methods:

- Lecture, discussion and other participatory learning methods in class,

- Reading and reflecting on important literature as well as

- Student papers

Grading criteria:

Formal grading (summative assessment) will be based on:

- 35% active participation in class and in discussions

- 35% written reflections on the literature

- 30% short presentations on core topics

Written reflection on the literature:

Students are expected to come well prepared to class. This includes reading of literature before each class and submission of a short reflexion paper (max. 2 pages) on 2 texts for each class.

The short reflexion paper should be structured as follows:

- What are the main statements / theses of the text?

- What did you personally learn through reading the text? / Which insights have you gained?

- Possibly ambiguities: what is difficult for you to understand

- Discussion points: what would you like to discuss: formulate 1-2 questions for discussion

The written reflections for the respective reading are to be send on Wednesday before the course date.

The literature will be provided on the learning platform.

Prerequisites:

Introduction into macroeconomics and economic policy

Suggested previous knowledge

Basics of economics and economic policy

Elisabeth.Klatzer@gmx.net; Romana.BRAIT@akwien.at; vw3@wu.ac.at;