Development economics
- A.A. 2021/2022
- CFU 8, 8(m)
- Ore 40, 40(m)
- Classe di laurea LM-52, LM-52(m)
No formal requirements other than those prerequisites required to be admitted to this Master degree, but knowledge of essential concepts of economics that are relevant to understanding development problems is highly recommended.
COURSE GOALS - This course will introduce students to some of the main concepts, theories and perspectives that inform analysis and policy making in the field of development economics. To that end, the course is divided into three parts. Part I focuses on the nature and meaning of development, its various manifestations in developing nations, and introduces the classic theories of development. Parts II and III focus on major domestic and international development problems and policies, such as economic growth, poverty and income distribution, population, migration, and urbanization.
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES - Students who take this course will be familiar with the meaning and application of most of the major concepts in development economics. Most importantly, students will develop reasoning skills to draw independent conclusions as they confront development problems and real-life development policy choices, using language that convey relevant ideas and concepts clearly.
The course covers the following parts and topics:
Part I - Principles and Concepts
1) Introducing Economic Development
2) Comparative Economic Development
3) Classic Theories of Economic Growth and Development
Part II - Domestic Development Problems and Policies
4) Poverty, Inequality, and Development
5) Population Growth and Economic Development
6) Urbanisation and Rural-Urban Migration
7) Education and Health in Economic Development
8) Agricultural Transformation and Rural Development
9) Environment and Development
10) Development Roles of Market, State, and Civil Society
Part III - International Development Problems and Policies
11) International Trade and Development
12) Balance of Payments, Debt, Financial Crises, and Sustainable Recovery
13) Foreign Finance, Investment, Aid, and Conflict
14) Finance and Fiscal Policy for Development
- 1. (A) Michael P. Todaro, Stephen C. Smith Economic Development Pearson Education Ltd, Harlow, Essex, United Kingdom, 2020 » Pagine/Capitoli: Chapters 1 to 3 and Chapters 5 to 15
Lecture slides, additional readings, information about this course, and important reminders will be made available on the course website.
- Lecturing is the main teaching method.
- The course is assessed through a final written examination based on a mix of open and closed questions.
English is the only language used for lecturing
English is the only language used for examinations