Political Economy of Major Powers: US, China, and Russia

Understanding global affairs requires analyzing the intertwined political and economic forces driving the world's major powers. This text-based course breaks down the governance structures, economic models, and strategic interests of the US, China, and Russia in an accessible format. You will develop a clear framework for interpreting international developments, economic policies, and geopolitical shifts by examining the domestic drivers and foreign policy strategies of these key nations. What you'll learn: Understand foundational concepts in political economy and comparative governance; Analyze the political structures and decision-making mechanisms of the US, China, and Russia; Examine distinct economic models, state roles in the market, and foreign trade policies; Evaluate geopolitical dynamics, including economic sanctions and international trade relations; Explore modern global topics such as technological competition and supply chain security. The course begins with fundamental terminology and key concepts before moving into structured readings and written comparative studies of each nation's political and economic trajectory. Designed for students and curious readers seeking a clear entry point, this material requires no prior background in political science or economics. Start reading today to build a thoughtful, well-informed perspective on contemporary global politics and economics.