Econ Dev Lat Am Countries

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

This course introduces students to the political economy of development in Latin America: Why is Latin America poorer than the richer north? Why are some regions of Latin America much more economically developed than others? To explore these questions, the first part of the course examines the impact of deep-seated differences across countries or regions, such as their culture, institutions, or geography, on their development paths. In the second part of the course, we look at particular roadblocks to development and whether specific actions by governments or states can address them. Given the complex and multidimensional nature of development, this class combines insights from history, political science, economics, environmental sciences, and sociology. Basic knowledge of economic concepts will be helpful, although it is not a requirement to take this class. The goals of the course are to: § Place the economic trajectory of Latin American countries in a long-term historical perspective; § Develop theoretical and methodological tools to understand economic development in general and its particularities in the region. § Think critically about the policies of economic development implemented in Latin America in the past and in more contemporary times § Draw lessons from successful (or unsuccessful) policies implemented in Latin America with implications for other regions