Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

Norwegian

Learning outcomes

After completing the course the students should:

• be able to describe key developments in the rise of capitalism globally

• be able to describe various theories about the driving forces behind the locating of economic activity, from the first locational theories to the current theories of creativity and symbolic economics driving economic development

• be able to discuss how planning processes are affected by economic forces at different geographical levels

• be able to explain and discuss key features of different strategies for facilitating economic activity, as well as the impact of these strategies on growth, inequality, place qualities and human development

• be able to explain and discuss different theoretical perspectives on the public's role in development processes

• have an insight into how the political economy characterizes urban and urban development

• have knowledge of political and cultural conditions for economic change

• have knowledge of capital circulation systems in the city

Contents

The course provides an introduction to the rise of a global capitalist economy, from the first theories of the location of economic activity, through theories of clusters and innovation systems, to the increasingly consumer-driven economy of today. The course also provides a basic insight into how democratic governance is influenced by capitalism. Through examples and theory, the course will provide an introduction to the transformation from production sites to locations based on symbolic economics. SV-152 concentrates specifically on how the planning institution is challenged by the logic of capitalism in its efforts to stimulate economic activity while safeguarding democratic ideals of participation and desire to prevent social inequality. Through active use of case, the topic will show how capitalism's logic contributes to gentrification.

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures and seminar groups. Total working hours 27 hours per credits.

Examination requirements

Passed compulsory assignments. See more information in Canvas.

Examinations

5 hour written exam. Graded grade A-F.

Student evaluation

The study program manager in consultation with the student union representative determines the form of evaluation and whether the courses should have mid or final evaluation, cf. the quality system, Chapter 4.1. Information on evaluation form for the topic is published in Canvas.

Reduction of Credits

This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:

Course Reduction of Credits
UT-101 – Global Political Economy. 5
UT-101 – Economic Globalisation. 5
UT-101 – Economic Geography. 5
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 7:00:51 AM