BEXP 15A06 - Foundations of Development Economics

This course will provide an introduction to some of the main questions and ideas in development economics. It is designed as a less technical alternative to “Development Economics” offered by Professor Clement Imbert. Broadly speaking, we will try to answer two questions: why are some countries (and within countries, some people) poor, and what can be done about it? We will cover conceptual frameworks and empirical evidence. We will adopt a micro and a macro perspective. We will discuss the role of different actors, from households to firms to governments. We will cover a wide range of issues, from communicable diseases to gender inequality to environmental degradation.

A first-year course in (micro) economics such as “Principles of Economics”, or an equivalent at another university.

Students will be evaluated with a mid-term (45%) and a final exam (55%). With a 5% bonus for class participation.