30204a

Varieties of Capitalism, Society and State (with a focus on the post-communist space)

Katharina Bluhm

Information for students

Classes: Wednesday 12 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 15.10.2025, 22.10.2025, 5.11.2025, 12.11.2025, 19.11.2025, 26.11.2025, Wednesday 12 a.m. to 4 p.m. on 14.01.2026, and a two-day workshop 29.01.-30.01.2026

Comments

In contrast to political science research on authoritarianism and the theorem of democratic backsliding, this seminar deals with the “return of the state” as an authoritative actor and the rise of economic nationalism from a capitalist theory perspective. The focus is on the post-communist space, especially Central Europe and Russia, with China being used as a comparative case. This regional focus is preceded by a brief overview of classical approaches to modern capitalism (Marx, Weber, Schumpeter, and Keynes) and world-system theory (Wallerstein). The discussion of variants and changes in modern capitalism and the composition of the elite and classes in the focus region also considers the contemporary debate on the rise of a new post-liberal global order.

Learning outcomes:
The aim of the seminar is to deepen participants' socioeconomic and political understanding of developments in the region and to place them in the global context of the current transformation of capitalism and world order. At the same time, seminar participants will familiarize themselves with basic concepts and fundamental debates in capitalist theory. close