Summer Timetable

POL300H1F L5101

Topics in Comparative Politics

Economic Development Programs and Poverty in the Global South

Themes

This course seeks to provide students with an understanding of economic development programs used to reduce poverty in the Global South (Latin America, Africa and Asia). Framed within the neoliberal Washington Consensus era, poverty reduction has been predominantly treated by a popular development mantra called “microfinance.” Concepts like social capital, identity and gender politics relevant in development programs will be examined. Students will have an opportunity to explore enterprise development programs at the local level using a critical lens—both from theoretical and practical perspectives.

Texts

Course Reader and TBA

Format and Requirements

Students are graded on a critical summary of an article, paper outline, analysis report, major research essay and class participation.

Prerequisites

1.0 POL credit