About Course
This Introduction to Development Economics course examines key questions related to growth, poverty, and structural transformation in Least Developed Countries (LDCs). It surveys the evolution of development economics from the 1940s to the present, including major schools of thought, debates, and policy challenges.
The module explores why developing countries face unique constraints, the influence of colonial legacies, and the role of human capital, trade, and international institutions in shaping development outcomes. The course blends theoretical learning with case studies, applied policy analysis, and group discussions involving real-world development agencies.
Development Economics — Aims, Approach & Learning Outcomes
Aims of the Course
- Survey the historical evolution of development economics from the 1940s to today.
- Examine key contributors such as Deepak Lal, Rosenstein-Rodan, and Lewis.
- Identify the unique challenges faced by developing countries and what sets them apart.
- Assess the influence of colonial legacies on economic and socio-political outcomes, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Explore the basic needs paradigm, including human capital, education, and health as foundations for development.
- Understand the trade and development experiences of LDCs.
- Evaluate interventions that facilitate long-term development and poverty reduction.
Learning & Teaching Strategies
- Lectures covering theory and contemporary economic debates.
- Case studies illustrating real-world policy issues in LDCs.
- Selected readings to deepen conceptual understanding.
- Group discussions encouraging critical analysis.
- Individual assignments and group projects.
- Guest lectures from policymakers and experts in international development.
The course also examines issues related to poverty, trade, aid, structural adjustment, privatisation, debt relief (HIPC), foreign investment, and income inequality in LDCs. Students will gain exposure to live case studies and interactions with professionals in development agencies.
Learning Outcomes
- Critically understand major development economics concepts, theories, and policies.
- Analyse domestic and international contexts shaping development policy design and implementation.
- Apply analytical skills to evaluate economic data and development policies in LDCs.
- Produce coherent written analyses for diverse policy stakeholders.
- Learn independently and produce original written work.
Syllabus Summary
- Introduction to development economics and recent economic performance of LDCs.
- Political economy of development: globalisation, aid, FDI, inequality, poverty reduction.
- Role of development agencies, NGOs, and international institutions.
- Historical and theoretical debates in development economics since the 1940s.
- Competing paradigms: capitalist, structuralist, neo-Marxist, dependency, Maoist, basic needs, and neo-classical.
- National poverty reduction strategies and UN development goals (MDGs, SDGs).
- Contemporary and emerging issues in development economics.
Assessment Scheme
- Group Coursework — 30%
- Individual Assignments — 30%
- End-of-Course Exam — 40%
Student Guidance
- Engage with core readings and supplementary materials.
- Participate actively in discussions and group activities.
- Use case studies to contextualise theoretical debates.
- Develop strong analytical and writing skills for policy-focused work.
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