Brock University will host the Global Economic Slump: Causes, Results and Prospects – Perspectives from the Socialist Left,
a discussion analyzing the 2008 crash to the current worldwide financial malaise.

Featuring Brock sociology professor Murray E. G. Smith and University of California (Los Angeles) history professor Robert Brenner, topics likely to be covered during the Nov. 14 (7:30 p.m.) event include:

• the growth of financialization in the economy
• the causes of the financial crisis beginning in 2008
• the effects of the crisis on economic inequality, unemployment, the regulation of the financial system
• prospects for recovery
• alternatives to capitalism

After Brenner and Smith speak, the audience in Welch Hall, room 324, will have a chance to ask questions and give comments.

“This topic is important for anyone who works, lives or consumes in contemporary society,” said Jonah Butovsky, Associate Professor of Sociology and one of the event organizers. “Both authors will likely point to the difficulties of a substantial economic recovery given the structural problems with the economic system. This topic relates to Naomi Klein’s recent book on the necessity for a substantially different economic form in order for us to both protect the physical environment and to reduce economic inequality.”

Sponsors for the event are:
CRISS
Department of Sociology
Department of Economics
Centre for Labour Studies
Social Justice Research Institute
CUPE 4207
Brock Socialist Club