Introduction to Development Economics

This textbook provides an introduction to development economics that examines both the drivers of economic growth and sustainable development. It initially presents development economics within a historical and political context, before widening its attention to theories of growth and development, the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals, the imbalance of power between the Global North and South, global development policies, and the role of international finance in development. Rather than focusing primarily on neoclassical growth theories, qualitative and quantitative aspects of the development process are both highlighted.

This book aims to give readers a broad understanding of the economic drivers of development and the economic theories that underpin them. It will be relevant to undergraduate and postgraduate students interested in development economics and sustainable development.

Marco Missaglia is Professor of International Macroeconomics at the University of Pavia.

Gianni Vaggi is Professor of Economics and Management of Cooperation and Development at the University of Pavia.