Why are some nations rich and some nations poor? What seems to work or doesn’t in the practice of global development? How do we know? What roles do institutions such as states, international agencies, civil society, and transnational corporations play? This class will seek to answer those questions. We will read studies employing diverse ideologies and methods to understand what has and has not worked in international development. In most weeks, we will complement key readings with a case study. This course focuses on both macro and micro approaches in development studies as well as a critical look at the role of international development aid. Much of our discussion will focus on historical experiences, debates and strategies for producing growth, reducing poverty and inequality, and improving societies’ well-being.
Student progress will be evaluated on the basis of performance along four criteria: (1) a take-home final assignment; (2) a take-home mid-term; (3) leading two in-class discussions of readings and case studies; and (4) class participation. This is a reading-intensive course. Students should be prepared to read the equivalent of about one book or four scholarly articles per week.