Why are some countries richer than others? Why have some countries experienced growth miracles while others have experienced stagnation or even growth disasters? Within developing countries, what does it mean to be poor? What are the challenges that the poor in developing countries face and what can be done to improve their living standards? The course will focus on explanations, such as differences in saving rates, capital stock, geography, institutions, foreign aid, international trade, and corruption in terms of trying to understand the large disparities across countries. Within countries we will examine education and credit markets for the poor. The course will cover both theory and empirical evidence. Emphasis will be placed on not just knowing the empirical evidence, but also on understanding the challenges faced in collecting credible empirical evidence.

In addition to the learning outcomes for the pass lectures and tutorials, honours students will:

• be introduced to more advanced analysis of the determinants of poverty and the differences between countries;
• understand how empirical analysis is used to examine these issues, and be able to critically evaluate the different approaches used.

By examination, assignments, and an essay.

Lectures and tutorials as for the pass course, together with additional tutorials throughout the semester or a longer honours essay.

ECON1101 Microeconomics 1, and ECON1102 Macroeconomics 1 or ECON1100 Economics 1 (H)

Incompatible with ECHI 2003 Development, Poverty and Famine ( P).

Please refer to Course Website