Political Economy Goes to the Movies

Political Economy Goes to the Movies provides an introduction to political economy using popular films and documentaries as the objects of analysis, helping readers to understand and analyze the economic and related political, cultural, and ecological relationships depicted in the films. Film exposes the weakness of mainstream economics and provides further data for analyzing the realism of social interaction.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 202 pages
\n Publication date: 15 November 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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Political Economy Goes to the Movies offers an accessible introduction to political economy by examining a diverse range of popular films and documentaries as analytical subjects. Through this lens, readers gain a deeper understanding and ability to analyze the economic, political, cultural, and ecological relationships depicted in selected films. This exploration is facilitated by drawing upon past and contemporary economic theories and engaging in discussions about the dynamic influence of economics on individual life chances.

While economic theories may provide abstract frameworks for understanding the world, films offer a more tangible and relatable perspective. They provide a backdrop for real-world events, such as income inequality, child labor, land seizures, and wars triggered by economic conflicts. Many films mirror these events, offering a visual representation of the challenges and struggles faced by individuals and communities.

Films also depict the complex interplay of political, economic, cultural, and ecological contexts within and between different economic relationships. Some films showcase the interconnectedness and interdependence of these factors, while others highlight the potential for "catastrophes" such as economic depressions, disruptive social transitions, violent revolutions, and existential environmental degradation. These films offer a glimpse into a world that is often characterized by disequilibrium and instability.

While films can provide valuable insights into human social relationships and related problems, they do not always offer explanations for these relationships and problems. However, mainstream economics faces certain limitations in its ability to analyze and understand these complex phenomena. Film exposes these weaknesses of the mainstream model, providing a different perspective and approach to understanding economic issues.

To enhance the realism of their analysis, some films are compared to documented historical social events. For instance, Twelve Years a Slave, Trumbo, The Big Short, and others are analyzed for their historical accuracy by referencing documented historical social events. Behavioral economics also provides valuable data for analyzing the realism of social interactions within the films.

By exploring events and contexts that are absent from traditional economic analysis, films offer a unique perspective on political economy. They challenge us to think beyond the narrow confines of mainstream economics and consider the broader social, cultural, and environmental factors that shape our lives. Through this lens, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities and interconnectedness of the world we live in.

In conclusion, Political Economy Goes to the Movies provides an engaging and accessible introduction to political economy through the analysis of popular films and documentaries. By leveraging the power of visual storytelling and real-world context, films offer a unique perspective on economic issues and challenge us to think beyond the boundaries of traditional economic analysis. Through this lens, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between economics, politics, culture, and the environment and explore the potential for positive change in our world.

\n Weight: 340g\n
Dimension: 234 x 173 x 21 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781138298361\n \n