A critical political economy of money, finance and finacialization

The project explores the nature and changing nature of money and finance in the contemporary global economy.

It investigates the way financial practices have changed both within countries and in their international dimensions, addressing both states and private institutions and the relations between finance and the wider economy.

‘Financialization’ is a contested term (Christophers 2015, Toporowski 2012) with disputes about its meaning and utility, and about its origins and consequences. And while the quantitative rise of finance (Krippner 2005, 2011) is an important feature of the economy in many countries, this is uneven across space and according to the dimensions considered. It has occurred simultaneously, but correlates poorly, with processes of financial liberalization. The PhD student may accordingly focus on particular dimensions or institutions of finance, and on changes within a particular country or region or adopt and explicitly global perspective.

The project is premised on the need for pluralism in economics and the insufficiency of a conventional mainstream economic perspective. It welcomes candidates from any theoretical tradition who are open to engagement with alternative views. It is expected that candidates will develop appropriate methodological skills in gathering and appraising evidence. The project is inter-disciplinary. Candidates should have some background in economics but those with qualifications in cognate disciplines are also welcome.

Funding

The faculty has been committed to supporting all postgraduate research students, for example by helping to fund conference attendance. We hope to continue with such funding initiatives in the future.

Applications

Applications accepted all year round. Intakes are in October 2024 and March 2025

How to apply for a research degree (PhD, Professional Doctorate, MPhil, MA/MSc by Research) – Kingston University London