Development Economics

Objectives

This course will give students an overview of the current debates and knowledge in the field of development economics. We will cover the main theories and empirical evidence on topics such as: the drivers of countries economic development and growth, the role of human capital and natural resources, or the legacies of historical events such as the slave trade or gender norms. The course also offers an introduction to recent research in this field with a strong link to applied work.

General characterization

Code

1108

Credits

7.5

Responsible teacher

Victoire Girard

Hours

Weekly - Available soon

Total - Available soon

Teaching language

English

Prerequisites

Mandatory Precedence: 1100. Principles of Microeconomics

Bibliography

BIBLIOGRAPHY Note: Readings are optional and the organisation of classes below is subject to adjustments.

At the end of the slides of each class, you will see a list of the core readings this class builds on. Most classes mix insights from research papers (a few of them are listed below) and parts of the two following books:

Banerjee, Abhijit V., and Esther Duflo (2011), Poor Economics: A Radical Rethinking of the Way to Fight Global Poverty, Public Affairs.

Ray, Debraj (1998), Development Economics, Princeton University Press.


Teaching method

There will be two lectures of 1 hour and 20 minutes per week, based on slides and blackboard notes. These will be complemented by a weekly practical class of 1 hour and 20 minutes. For each topic, a general overview of the theoretical and empirical issues will be given in the lectures, and some examples taken from recent research will be studied in greater detail in the practical classes. Participation of students will be strongly encouraged to foster discussion.


Evaluation method

1. Practical class presentation of a research paper - 15%

This is the group presentation of a designated research paper or specific source in the practical class. It will involve a PowerPoint presentation (made for 25min), and broad discussion in class, AS EVERYONE IS EXPECTED TO ASK QUESTIONS OR MAKE OBSERVATIONS. The group will be responsible for answering the questions raised. 

2. Paper proposal - 30%

The paper proposal should have maximum 6 pages, with font Calibri size 12 pp and line spacing of 1.5. It is a written report written individually, which should contain a discussion of a research question in development economics and a proposition of contribution. The proposed contribution can be empirical or theoretical. It is a proposition, which does not have to be actually implemented. What will be valued is the relevance and the feasibility of the proposition. You will regularly discuss the steps of building up your paper proposal (the choice of topic, elements of the proposal, potential data source and identification strategy of your contribution) in the practical classes. The final delivery is at the end of the term (November 30).

3. Oral participation in the lectures and practical classes - 5%.

This includes class attendance and participation, as well as number and quality of questions asked during the student presentations.

4. Final exam - 50% (minimum grade to pass the course: 7). 

Subject matter

The focus of the course will be on the microeconomics of development, with strong policy and empirical components. We will begin with an introduction to the notions of development and poverty, and the origins of development in growth theory, while linking to the debate on foreign aid. We will then study the importance of the environment, natural resources, and human capital (health and education). Last, we will discuss the importance of institutions and norms, their historical roots, and the dangers they face (corruption and conflict).


Programs

Programs where the course is taught: