Political Economy

Filed Under » ,
Dictionary Says

Definition of 'Political Economy'

The study and use of how economic theory and methods influences political ideology. Political economy is the interplay between economics, law and politics, and how institutions develop in different social and economic systems, such as capitalism, socialism and communism. Political economy analyzes how public policy is created and implemented.
Investopedia Says

Investopedia explains 'Political Economy'

Because various individuals and groups have different interests in how a country or economy is to develop, political economy as a discipline is a complex field, covering a broad array of potentially competing interests. Political economy also involves the use of game theory, since groups competing for finite resources and power must determine which courses of action will give the most beneficial results, and what the probability of those results being reached are.

Related Definitions

  • Economics

    A social science that studies how individuals, governments, firms and nations make choices on allocating scarce resources to satisfy their unlimited wants. Economics can generally be ...
    Read More »
  • Game Theory

    A model of optimality taking into consideration not only benefits less costs, but also the interaction between participants. Game theory attempts to look at the relationships between ...
    Read More »
  • Nash Equilibrium

    A concept of game theory where the optimal outcome of a game is one where no player has an incentive to deviate from his or her chosen strategy after considering an opponent's choice. ...
    Read More »
    • Pareto Efficiency

      An economic state where resources are allocated in the most efficient manner. Pareto efficiency is obtained when a distribution strategy exists where one party's situation cannot be ...
      Read More »
    • Pork-Barrel Politics

      A slang term used when politicians or governments "unofficially" undertake projects that benefit a group of citizens in return for that group's support or campaign donations. This ...
      Read More »

Articles Of Interest

Partner Links