University of Cape Town

This is an introductory course in game theory, the framework for analyzing strategic interaction. Game theory is the basic technology for understanding most phenomena in microeconomics and some phenomena in macroeconomics, along with many processes in political science, law, evolutionary biology, and the science of animal behavior. This course studies the basic structure of the theory.

Ethical choices are unavoidable in business. This course presents how to articulate your options when confronted with an ethical dilemma in business, and make well- informed judgements about the right thing to do. The course considers a range of problems, from issues that could arise in a first job to questions of business regulation that you may one day face as a leader in commerce or government. In each case, the course challenges and assists you to recognize ethical problems in practical situations, understand the possible solutions, and make reasoned decisions. Assessment: coursework (40%), and final exam (60%).

The course explores the theory of public economics; the empirical effects of taxes, spending and debt on economic growth and stability, resource allocation, the distribution of economic well-being and intergenerational equity; analysis of fiscal institutions; and the current and continuing policy debates. References are made to the fiscal issues and problems of other countries, developed and developing, but the primary focus will be on South Africa

This course introduces and discusses the dynamic interplay between the various forces of globalization and the impact on culture and identity in Africa. The ideas explored and debates encouraged are expected to contribute towards a more thoughtful, professional practice and critical awareness of social and historical context, particularly the post-colonial context in Africa. From Cape Town to Algiers and Puntland, the course takes a case-study approach, examining a range of different contemporary issues, historical moments, and diverse localities across the continent. It also explores dominant concepts and vocabularies that operate in relation to complex processes of globalization, but which impact everyday life in distinctly different ways. 

Global governance refers to the way in which global affairs are managed in the absence of a global government, and involves a broad range of actors, including states, and international and regional organizations. This course provides an overview of the existing architecture of global governance, explores the management of selected global issues, and considers debates and new trends in global governance. Assessment: coursework (50%), final exam (50%). Course entry requirements: Any 2000-level POL course.

This course introduces the study of archaeology, and the study of human origins. The course presents an overview of prehistory leading up to the modern day, as well as the broader climatic, geographic, ecological, social, and cultural contexts which made modern humans. In particular, it looks at the past through the lens of what people leave behind - the archaeological record. Topics covered include a broad understanding of the timescales of human prehistory, and our interactions with the Earth System, from the Early Pleistocene through to the Historical period, and the emergence of present day societies (the "Anthropocene"); an understanding of current concepts in archaeological thought, and the complexities of relationships between archaeologists, science, and society today; and familiarity with the foundational skills and terminology necessary for present-day archaeological research and investigation. This broad course is suitable for all undergraduate students in the sciences and humanities; but particularly for those wishing to major in Archaeology, Environmental & Geographical Science, or cognate subjects. DP requirements: Attendance at lectures and tutorials and completion of assignments. Assessment: Assignments and class tests count 50% towards the final mark and one 3-hour examination written in November counts 50%. A sub-minimum of 40% is required for the examination.