The Dynamics of Socio-Economic Development: An Introduction
Cambridge University Press
Edition: 2nd ed., 2005-01-20
EAN 9780521520843, ISBN10: 0521520843
Hardcover, 746 pages, 24.7 x 24.6 x 17.3 cm
Why are poor countries poor and rich countries rich? How are wealth and poverty related to changes in nutrition, health, life expectancy, education, population growth and politics? This modern, non-technical introduction to development studies explores the dynamics of socio-economic development and stagnation in developing countries. Taking a quantitative and comparative approach to contemporary debates within their broader context, Szirmai examines historical, institutional, demographic, sociological, political and cultural factors. Key chapters focus on economic growth, technological change, industrialisation, agricultural development, and consider social dimensions such as population growth, health and education. Each chapter contains comparative statistics on trends from a sample of twenty-nine developing countries. This rich statistical database allows students to strengthen their understanding of comparative development experiences. Assuming no prior knowledge of economics the book is suited for use in inter-disciplinary development studies programmes as well as economics courses, and will also interest practitioners pursuing careers in developing countries.
'... a scholarly and comprehensive treatment of development economics that is accessible to a wide range of social science and development studies students. Its treatment of health issues, education policy, and rural development, along with its comprehensive data tables, are unsurpassed in the development economics field.' Kenneth A. Reinert, George Mason University