J-Term

Course Information

ECONOMICS 644-1 Economics of Development in Cuba, Psychology of Stress in Cuba (Psyc 471-1), 4 credits (Yuri Maltsev, Penny Seymoure)

It has been argued that one cannot completely understand the economy of a state without also investigating its political systems and the psychology of its citizens. This travel study course is designed to enhance students global perspectives by exploring the impact of socialism on three interrelated topics- the Cuban economy, Cuban politics, and the Cuban psyche.

Class meetings will be held on campus for one week followed by a study tour of Cuba for another two weeks. Upon return from Cuba, the class will meet for several days for oral presentations regarding specific aspects of the Cuban experience. Cuba became a communist state led by Fidel Castro in 1959, and the controversial U.S. embargo against Cuba (which restricts trade and travel to the island) has lasted since 1962. The legalization of U.S. dollars by the Cuban government in 1993 has fomented complex economic, political, and social circumstances in the country. The tension between capitalism and communism during these post-Soviet years (with Cubas subsequent loss of huge Soviet subsidies) has brought numerous economic adjustments and chronic stress situations for its citizens as they face the challenge of providing for a family on a daily basis in a country that has a shortage of basic necessities.

Visits will be arranged in Havana with government economic and social agencies along with field trips to more rural areas of the island.

Meeting Time: On campus MTWRF 9:00-12:00, LH227 Off campus is Cuba
Prerequisites: None
Fee: aprroximately $1800