Introduction

This course focuses on the economics of developing countries from a comparative perspective to economic conditions in developed countries. The course emphasizes the need to distinguish growth and development as distinct conceptual categories driven by different, context-specific structural characteristics and conditions. It explores the processes by which countries enter into a stage where the standards of living of the masses of people are increased and these increases are sustained over time. One of the central issues in economic development is the issue of economic growth. Other issues include poverty and inequality, the Colonial legacy, the environment, institutions and globalization, technological change, the role of the state, multilateral institutions as well as the importance of gender. This course focuses on both the macro and micro issues that are central to growth and development.

Upon completing this course, you should be able to:

  • Understand growth and development as distinct conceptual categories.
  • Understand the structural characteristics of developing countries.
  • Compare and contrast theories of economic growth and development, and economic conditions in developed and developing countries.
  • Identify the specific problems developing countries face and consider policies to address those problems.
  • Understand the causes of poverty and inequality in the developing world.
  • Recognize the role that gender plays in economic development.
  • Consider the concept of sustainable development.
  • Understand the issues involved in the globalization of markets and their consequences for developed and developing countries.

Prerequisites

The prerequisites for this course are either (a) Econ 210 (Foundations of International Economics) or (b) Econ 251 (Intermediate Microeconomics) AND Econ 252 (Intermediate Macroeconomics).


Syllabus and Topics

  • Coming soon!

Sample Problem Sets

  • Coming soon!

Sample Exams

  • Coming soon!