Do states in Africa intervene in the economy too much as many neoliberals claim or should they intervene more as many supporters of development argue? Does business have too much power in Africa or have the critics of “big business” and transnational corporations been too alarmist? Is the role of national government diminishing with greater global integration? This course discusses ancient and contemporary controversies regarding the relationship between governments and markets. Across Africa, it will evaluate different kinds of state intervention into the economy — from policies on affordable housing to state financing of shopping malls and office complexes. It will also explore public-private partnerships to provide electricity and water. At the same time, it will examine the growth of the private sector in selected African countries such as South Africa, Ghana, and Angola. It will explore several city building projects as well as investments into biofuels and mining. Through comparative study of investors in different settings, the course will determine whether the interests and loyalties of large companies are national or global and how increasing globalization is affecting the scope and influence of domestic governments.

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