To understand theories of economic development, and how they apply to Latin America. To understand how the history of the region shapes the problems it faces today. To gain an introduction of current problems facing Latin American economies. To gain incite into the role of the state, the market, and the informal sector in promoting sustainable development. The class will focus on discussion of topics presented in the required texts, and supplemented by additional readings.
Students are responsible for coming to class prepared to discuss the required readings.
Lectures will occur only when background theoretical material is necessary for an understanding of the issues. Each student will adopt a country, and be responsible for sharing with the class the application of general themes to that particular country experience. This will be formalized in a series of student presentations corresponding to the sections of the course. These talking points should form the basis for both descriptive and critical points about the readings. Students will write a final paper bringing together the themes discussed during the class with reference to their adopted country.