From Global Capitalism to Sustainable Development

Course Description

"From Global Capitalism to Sustainable Development" is an eye-opening, comprehensive 8-week MOOC that delves into the critical transition our world needs to make from the current global capitalist system to a more sustainable, equitable, and environmentally conscious economic model. This course offers a deep dive into the shortcomings of our past and present global economies while presenting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2030 as the blueprint for a better future.

What Students Will Learn

• The pros and cons of global capitalism
• The historical context of economic growth, industrialization, and globalization
• The challenges posed by economic growth on a planet with finite resources
• The key objectives of sustainable development and how they address the limitations of the current capitalist system
• Global progress towards sustainable development and future strategies

Prerequisites

There are no specific prerequisites for this course. However, a basic understanding of economics and global issues would be beneficial.

Course Coverage

• The concept and importance of sustainable development
• Global capitalism and its impact on society and the environment
• Historical context of economic growth and globalization
• Market economics and production possibilities
• Injustices perpetuated by capitalism (e.g., colonialism, gender inequality, class disparities)
• The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their role in addressing global challenges
• Environmental challenges and necessary transformations for sustainability
• Transitioning from capitalism to sustainable development
• Strategies for achieving sustainable development, including financing and stakeholder engagement

Who This Course Is For

• Policy professionals seeking to understand SDG planning frameworks
• Development practitioners interested in goals-based development
• Advanced undergraduate and graduate students studying economics, development, and SDG-related concepts
• Anyone interested in understanding the transition from global capitalism to sustainable development

Real-World Applications

• Policymaking: Develop more sustainable and equitable policies at local, national, or international levels
• Business strategies: Implement sustainable practices in corporate environments
• Non-profit work: Design and execute development projects aligned with SDGs
• Research: Conduct studies on sustainable development and its impact on various sectors
• Education: Teach others about sustainable development and global citizenship
• Personal life: Make more informed decisions about consumption and lifestyle choices

Syllabus

Each module contains 5-6 chapters covering specific topics related to the module's theme, providing a comprehensive and structured learning experience throughout the 8-week course.