The course surveys various sociological perspectives on global change and development.

Section one charts the history of the concept of development, using studies from Russia to Central America and Africa.

Section two examines resistance to social and political inequalities and their relationship to social change and development.

Section three draws upon contemporary critiques of development and progress and examines the concept of globalisation. These approaches will be assessed through examining a range of contemporary issues, ranging from the advent of the Newly Industrialising Countries, global consumerism, environmental degradation and global institutions.

Students will be encouraged to take these issues and apply them to their own specific fields of interest in global development.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. possess a basic understanding of the relationship between the development of sociological thought and our understanding of the dynamics of global change;
2. appreciate the political and historical developments that have influenced the 'making of the Third World';
3. examine the rhetoric and the reality behind contemporary concepts or codewords, such as 'progress', 'modernisation', 'development' and 'globalisation';
4. appreciate the complex interlinkages between the 'global' and the 'local';
5. write clearly, i.e. to produce an argument and marshal evidence for it;
6. understand the issues discussed and are able to develop a reasoned position.

1. One research essay (2500 words)  45% [Learning outcomes 1, 2 & 5]

2. Three reflective markers – 600, 750 and 1000 words) 45% [Learning outcomes 1,2,3,4 & 5]

3. Tutorial participation (10%) [Learning outcome 1,2,3,4,and 6)

A total of 130 hours over the semester including 24 hours of lectures and 11 hours of tutorials.

Completion of first year, including any two first-year courses of Sociology or Anthropology or Political Science or with the permission of the lecturer.