International development
Development and the State
Module code: L2128
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Essay
On this module, you'll explore the role of the state in development, examining how states can pursue forms of development that either empower or marginalise different groups. You'll approach this topic through:
- theoretical perspectives: investigating key debates in state theory and the relationship between the state and development
- empirical analysis: studying historical and contemporary state forms and their impacts on development processes
- normative questions: considering what the role and nature of the state should ideally be.
The module covers major theoretical approaches to understanding the state, as well as historical state forms and their development experiences, in both the Global North and the post-colonial South.
Module learning outcomes
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of the different theoretical perspectives which have been used to explain, interpret and evaluate the place of the state in development.
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the development experiences and trajectories of a range of different states and state forms.
- Formulate academically informed opinions about the relationship between the state and development.
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of how different states can purse different forms of development that are more or less emancipatory to marginalised peoples.