Theories and Histories of Globalisation and Development

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Globalisation and development have been interdependent processes at least since the colonial era, and these linkages became even more prominent during the so-called "Age of Development" that followed WWII. The trends of 21st century globalisation in some ways depart from and in other ways reinforce these historical processes. Two trends are particularly significant. First, the most pressing developmental issues of our times are even more global in nature, and second, in the last century, especially since the WW II, the discourses and practices on development have dominantly shaped processes of globalisation. The trends of 21st century globalisation are, however, markedly different, whether they refer to, for instance, financial crisis or climate change. Two of these trends are particularly significant. First, some of the most pressing issues of our times are global in nature, and second, contrary to the cold war politics of the 20th century, the world is increasingly becoming multi-polar with the rising power of several developing nations. In order to prepare students to engage with this changing scenario, this course will introduce the history, leading theories and formative debates on globalisation and development, and the ways in which the two are related. The course addresses theories from the theories of colonialism through modernization theory, dependency, neoliberalism, alternatives to development and human development. It addresses ongoing debates on globalisation, and the rise of Asia and emerging societies. The course will use both original texts and critiques to help students develop their own interdisciplinary understanding of globalisation and development, which will be represented in the form of debates among students on various contemporary aspects of 21st century globalisation and development.