The power of capitalist markets has permeated into every aspect of our lives. Conversely, the dynamics of social relations, cultures and values are deeply embedded in the operations of contemporary market economy. It is in this context that sociology can make a distinctive contribution to a realistic understanding of our economic life. This course is designed to provide an introduction to the field of new economic sociology, and to prepare students to be able to pursue research in this field. Special emphasis will be placed on learning contemporary organizational and network theories, developing an understanding of the historical rise of capitalism, and becoming sensitive to global variations in styles of capitalism. By taking this course students will be introduced to organizational and institutional theories. The course provides students with tools to develop their own critiques of cultural dimensions of capitalism. The course is run as a participatory seminar.