CAPITALISM: AN ECONOMIC SYSTEM UNDER ASSAULT

Jeffrey Morton

Lifelong Learning Society Distinguished Professor of
Current Affairs 2005-2008
Recipient of the LLS 2002 Excellence in Teaching Award

DESCRIPTION: The Wealth of Nations (Adam Smith, 1776) provided the classic, capitalist model of economics. Since its publication, both capitalists and non-capitalists have challenged its underlying premise and have sought either to replace it, or massively overhaul it. In the Keynesian era, we are left to ponder not only the extent of government intrusion in the market place necessary to keep the system afloat, but also whether capitalism in any form is a viable model of economics for the 21st century. In this one-time lecture, Professor Morton will provide an overview of the historic economic debates since the publication of the Wealth of Nations. He will assess the current condition of the global economy, and the major challenges that lie ahead. Finally, he will present a series of paths that the United States can consider in its navigation through the troubled global economy.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Dr. Jeffrey Morton is Professor of International Law and Politics in the Department of Political Science and is the author of three books and numerous journal articles. Since 1994, he has taught international relations courses at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Recipient of the 2012 Foreign Policy Association Medal, Dr. Morton is Director of the FAU Diplomacy Program.