Part I (Wolfgang Fellner) deals with the linkages between politics and the economy (that is with how policies, political decisions and political institutions produce economic outcomes that differ from those that would occur otherwise). It outlines the orthodox economic approach and then moves on to explore the traditions of non-mainstream economic thought (also referred to as non-orthodox or heterodox traditions of analysis) which are typically excluded from conventional policy-making – even when they remain relevant to contemporary economic understanding and policy-making. The course also engages in a critical evaluation of such contributions through international institutions. Examples of international policy problems will be employed such as sustainable development, economic inequaliaties, climate change, biodiversity loss and labour market regulation.

Part II (Verena Madner) introduction to foundations of international law and institutions as well as an outline of multi-level governance in the European Union (institutions, decision-making, and implementation). It deals with human rights law and the role of courts and engages in an analysis of existing and emerging policies with emphasis on environmental issues. Different regulatory patterns or modes of governance will be illustrated. 

Attendance is required for the lecture part of this course. The rules for attendance in the reading/exercise sessions of this course will be detailed in the first session of the course.

• pre-readings
• in-class discussions
• lectures