Teaching
Teaching at Stanford
POLISCI 244D/CLASSICS 187: Societal Collapse
Quarters: Spring 2022, Spring 2023, Fall 2023
Sustained economic growth is an anomaly in human history. Moreover, in the very long term, sustained economic decline is common. Following a historical and cross-cultural perspective, we will study the causes of economic decline, the social and political consequences of that decline, and the path that led to the collapse of some of the most prosperous societies in human history. Among the episodes we will cover are the Late Bronze Age collapse in the Eastern Mediterranean, the fall of the Western Roman Empire, and the Classic Maya collapse. We will compare these ancient episodes with recent cases of socioeconomic decline, including the dissolution of the Soviet Union, and the downfall of Venezuela under Chavismo. We will use the past to reflect on the fundamentals of harmony and prosperity in our society and the challenges that they will face in the future.
POLISCI 244C/ECON 134: Wealth of Nations
Quarters: Winter 2021, Winter 2022, Spring 2024
Why are there economic disparities across countries? Why did some countries grow steadily over the past 200 years while many others did not? What have been the consequences for the citizens of those countries? What has geography, culture, and institutions played in the development process? What are the moral dilemmas behind this development process? These are some of the questions we will discuss in this course. Following a historical and cross-cultural perspective, we will study the origins of economic development and the path that led to the configuration of the modern global economy.
POLISCI 243: Political Economy of Latin America
Quarters: Spring 2024
This course offers a comprehensive overview of Latin America's political and economic development, exploring the factors contributing to the region's current situation. It examines why Latin America fell behind the United States, its high political instability, and widespread inequality. The course analyzes Latin America's history and presents theories from economics and political science to interpret the development path of the region. Additionally, the course examines key features of Latin American democracies, including state weakness, populism, clientelism, and corruption. By analyzing these factors, students gain an understanding of the challenges facing Latin American countries and potential solutions. Syllabus here.
Teaching at NYU Abu Dhabi
CSTS-UH 1012: Wealth of Nations
Semester: Fall 2020, Spring 2021, Fall 2021
Why are there economic disparities across countries? Why did some countries grow steadily over the past 200 years while many others did not? What have been the consequences for the citizens of those countries? What has geography, culture, and institutions played in the development process? What are the moral dilemmas behind this development process? These are some of the questions we will discuss in this course. Following a historical and cross-cultural perspective, we will study the origins of economic development and the path that led to the configuration of the modern global economy.