GDEV 6060

Sociological Theories of Development

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

With the transformation of former colonies into developing countries, the notion of development emerged as a key conceptual framework for conceptualizing global hierarchies in wealth and power. Sustained by an apparatus of national and international agencies, and university programs in development studies, the 'development industry' generated a vast body of literature seeking to account for or promote social, economic, and political change. This course aims to familiarize students with some of the key theoretical approaches and debates in the field of development. Throughout the course, the concept of development itself is questioned and critiqued both theoretically and in terms of the challenges posed by development practice.

Exploratory Studies (CU-SBY)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025SP

Outcomes

• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of influential schools of thought in the field of global development.
• Enhance arguments through the development of critical thinking, reading and communication skills.
• Demonstrate critical analysis by articulating concise responses to contemporary development arguments in varying contexts.
• Engage meaningfully with collaborative research partners.

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