GDEV 6060 - Sociological Theories of Development

(CU-SBY)

Spring. 3 credits. Student option grading.

F. Makki.

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.

Outcome 1: Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of influential schools of thought in the field of global development.

Outcome 2: Enhance arguments through the development of critical thinking, reading and communication skills.

Outcome 3: Demonstrate critical analysis by articulating concise responses to contemporary development arguments in varying contexts.

Outcome 4: Engage meaningfully with collaborative research partners.