Catalog Economic Development
Economic Development
"Extremely engaging. It combines a clear explanation of the 'nuts and bolts' needed in a good textbook with intriguing current events often found only in supplemental reading." (*)
This innovative textbook provides an introduction to economic development that takes a regional approach, with the theory developed within geographic areas. This leads to the second innovative aspect, an emphasis on institutional structures unique to each region. Third, the authors analyze the development process within the historical context of each region, and consider institutional inheritance from both the pre-colonial and colonial eras and in contemporary times. Thoroughly classroom tested, the text requires no previous courses in economics, although basic principles of economics would be useful. An Instructor's Manual with discussion questions, a test bank, and PowerPoint slides is available online to instructors who adopt the text.
Endorsements:
"Extremely engaging. It combines a clear explanation of the 'nuts and bolts' needed in a good textbook with intriguing current events often found only in supplemental reading." — Tony Capecchi, student (*)
"The book covers the intellectual ground that a liberally educated student needs to grapple with to understand the complexity of economic development. For many years political scientists and economists have presented overly simplistic models and frameworks for understanding economic development that cannot withstand critical analyses of many individual country cases. By focusing on political economy in its cultural, religious and historical roots, as well as leadership decisions, it spurs critical thinking. Working through the unique development paths of individual countries promotes integrative thinking and a strong sense of realism about both the prospects and challenges of economic development in our rapidly emerging global economy and highly conflicted global society." — Henry Smorynski, former Provost, College of St. Benedict / St. John's University
"I was intrigued to learn about some of the world's biggest problems in a different light. It was also very easy to understand and read." — Katie Ferber, student
"Easy to read and follow along, but it was still very informative. ... I also liked how it talked about real world issues ... so you could see how the theories/institutions actually apply." — Karen Yokiel, student
"This text actually did hit the core of economic issues that affect the under-developed world. Using models that are complex yet comprehensible, [the authors] shed light on the socio-economic relationship challenging mainstream theories of development economics, and spark intellectual discourse among students. It is a must read for development enthusiasts." — JohnPaul Arabome, student
"Easy to read and follow. ... A good use of quantitative data and growth models while employing qualitative factors to determine economic development. A must read for any economist." — Thomas J. Stangler, student