Globalization and Inequality: Perspectives on Development

Full course description

This course critically examines structural issues of development through a lens of globalisation. Globalisation refers to the increasing interdependence of markets, states and civil societies and the resulting effects on people and their environment. By also focusing on inequality –that is, the structural differentiation among actors in terms of access to means, opportunities and resources– issues of (re-)distribution are taken into account as well. The course investigates inequalities and interdependencies on a global, international, national and local level, while considering the role of public, private and civil society actors. Thus, it aims to understand underlying development processes and unlock ongoing debates. The course focuses on the following themes: globalisation and development; the Global Goals for Sustainable Development; history of inequality; agencies of development; democratization, human rights and development; health and development; global migration and remittances; and climate crisis, consumption patterns and the North-South divide.

Course objectives

To understand and analyze development issues in the light of globalisation and inequality from several disciplinary perspectives and recognise links between globalisation, inequality, poverty and development.
To understand theories, concepts and historical roots of global social, political and economic inequality as well as understand contemporary issues in development and the developing world, in particular:

Global agencies of development
Democratisation, human rights and development
Health and development
Global migration and remittances
Climate crisis, consumption patterns and the North-South divide

To gain knowledge of the main global and international actors and networks in the field of development, including their aim, impact and effectiveness.
To analyze changes in 21st century geopolitical perspectives on development, such as the growing impact of ‘emerging’ countries like China and ‘new’ South-South partnerships.
To develop insight in the relations between the various global crises and recent development policies.
To use the accumulated understanding and knowledge to envision future development scenarios.

Prerequisites

Academic Skills Training or equivalent University-level writing skills preparation.

Globalization and Inequality: Perspectives on Development