America may have its own economic woes, but how does the United States compare to other countries in terms of achieving economic justice? Could the Nordic model, with its high taxes in exchange for generous public services, work in America? Or should we seriously be reconsidering democratic socialism as a solution? This course will focus on pathways to economic justice paved in other countries to ask if they really are the success stories some have claimed and if so, whether they would be feasible as solutions in the United States.

Faculty Bio

Darren Zook teaches in political science and global studies at UC Berkeley. His areas of interest include comparative politics, human rights and international law. He has received numerous teaching awards for his creativity in the classroom, and was recently named one of the “Top Ten Most Inspiring Professors at UC Berkeley” by College Magazine. He lectures all around the world, and has published six books. 

This is an In-Person, Livestreamed + Recorded Course

• Classes meet in person at the Golden Bear Center, Suite 202/204 (2nd floor), at 1995 University Ave., Berkeley
• Classes will also stream live, and be video recorded
• You must be a current OLLI @Berkeley member to register. Learn about membership, including our fee assistance program.

Schedule Highlights

• Course starts on Thur, April 23, and ends on Thur, May 7
• Classes meet for 3 weeks, 2 hours per session (10–noon)
• All course materials will remain in Member Dashboards through May 31

Member Praise for Darren Zook

Dr. Zook is one of the best teachers I've ever had and I'm 80!

Darren Zook is an amazing teacher. He's a well-organized, extremely knowledgeable, and always engaging.

I have taken several classes with Darren Zook and will take several more. His scope and depth of knowledge is extraordinary. And he is able to communicate it effectively and effortlessly. 

Faculty Q&A

• Read an interview with Darren Zook from our archive.