Economics dominates political decision making usually to the exclusion of other priorities. Many Prime Ministers have studied Economics at University - to any good effect? The great economist JM Keynes observed that "practical men who believe themselves to be quite exempt from any intellectual influence, are usually the slaves of some defunct economist". Is the currently fashionable "value free" neoliberal economics now "defunct"? Are the values, methods and perspectives of classical economics still relevant? Are there any viable alternatives? This course offers a personal critique of a subject important to us all. Course members will consider basic economic ideas, concepts and theoretical models in a critical light. The course will be in seminar format, with both formal teaching and class discussion. Previous knowledge of economics isn't needed but a sceptical interest in current affairs is. The tutor is experienced in teaching economics to university entrance level.