240088 KU GM3 - Entwicklungstheorien und -paradigmen aus transdisziplinärer Perspektive (2023W)

The course provides an introduction to key theories, paradigms and criticisms of development and development studies. As a first step, we will consider how and why the development idea originated in the context of colonialism and global capitalism. Subsequently, we will critically discuss central (development) arguments in modernization theory, dependency theory, the world-systems approach, and neoliberalism. An additional focus lies on anti-colonial and post-colonial perspectives on development and post-development approaches. In the concluding sessions, we will also focus on the crisis of the current world order and new geopolitical constellations.

The course aims at providing students with a critical understanding of different development theories. In this regard, we address how these theories have influenced development policy, practices, and aid. We will discuss the basic readings in working groups (WG) and the plenary along guiding questions. In thematic WGs, students will present key concepts such as unequal exchange, neocolonialism or intersectionality based on additional literature.