Political Economy of Development (PUC, PhD)

These are turbulent times for states, markets and the politics of development. Financial crises, health pandemics, supra-national regulation of trade—borderless challenges and opportunities are just part of the complexities facing policy makers in both developing and industrialized nations alike. For developing countries, debate regarding the optimum policies to pursue development is full of contradictions. What role does the state have in economic development? To what degree have developed countries served as the “handmaidens” of their industrialization? How do we determine success in economic development? Are our primary tools of measurement sufficient? How are international standards changing the “policy space” afforded to national governments? How can governments pursue policies such as technological innovation, public health and financial stability?

Can we identify patterns or models of development followed in East Asia, China, India, and Latin America? What options are available to developing countries facing the largest global financial crisis since the Great Depression?

 This course examines these questions and more, exploring the leading debates in development, focusing on the role of the state. Our investigation will be divided into three sections. In the first section, we will examine debates on the role of the state in economic development. Next, we explore “models” of development in East Asia, China, Russia, India and Latin America.