In 2015, ISI examined the economics and politics in Panama, Peru and Colombia.
The Political Economy of Latin America
During the summer of 2015, the Iron Sharpens Iron Program enrolled 11 students who had taken the pre-requisite courses for the study of political economy in Colombia, Panama and Peru. The summer instruction on campus included a month of classwork and then travel to three countries in Latin America chosen for their economic growth after a period of prolonged internal violence due to political factionalism, narco-trafficking and communist or right wing insurgencies.
During the intensive on-campus study for four weeks, students took part in site visits to American businesses in preparation for their international field study. Students then traveled to Panama, Peru and Colombia visiting businesses, NGOs, churches, government offices, markets, think tanks and points of cultural significance. Upon their return, students presented group projects to a select group of faculty.
Course Offerings
Iron Sharpens Iron students registered for a total of 8 credit hours:
ECON 394/IR 371 Globalization in the Latin American Context (4 credit hours)
Instructor: Dr. Seth Norton, Professor of Business and Economics
This course examines the history and effects of globalization throughout the world and with specific reference to Latin America. Students study the economic, political and human impact of globalization on issues such as economic growth, international trade, population growth, the technological innovations of global communication, and human mobility.
BEC 382 Global Business Strategy (2 credit hours)
Instructor: Dr. Min-Dong Paul Lee, Associate Professor of Business
This is a methods course designed to provide the tools that help students develop and evaluate corporate strategies. The course focuses on the challenges of doing business globally; with specific reference to Latin America. Students analyze cases and observe companies in-country in order to sharpen their skills regarding Mergers & Acquisitions and organic growth strategies in a global context.
Econ 392/IR 352 Capitalism, Democracy and World Religions (2 credit hours)
Instructors: Dr. Seth Norton, Professor of Business and Economics and Dr. Annette Tomal, Associate Professor of Business and Economics
This course examines the role of Christian world missions as an economic and political force. The link between world religions, missions, and empire is explored as well as criticism of the missionary movement as an instrument of cultural imperialism. The role of the missionary movement in affecting democracy and economic growth is explored. The course provides special reference and focus on role of culture on economic institutions, especially economic freedom and economic performance of Latin American countries.