The Politics of International Development

Catalog description

This course explores the politics of international development. Why are some countries rich and other countries poor? The seminar investigates the structural constraints, historical legacies, and political institutions that account for differences in development across and within countries. Furthermore, the seminar critically analyzes the relationship between development and economic growth. After examining accounts offered by different theories of development, students will analyze the institutions and norms governing international development, particularly foreign aid. The final section brings students up to date on current research on how the rise of China and other emerging powers is shifting the international development landscape.