The Politics of Development
- Claire Mcloughlin - University of Birmingham, UK
- Sameen Ali - University of Birmingham , UK
- Kailing Xie - University of Birmingham , UK
- Nic Cheeseman - University of Birmingham , UK
- David E. Hudson - University of Birmingham, UK
A pathbreaking introduction to the controversial, contested and deeply political topic of development. Written in an engaging and eminently readable style, leading authors invite readers to examine the political dynamics behind some of today’s most complex global issues, from rising inequality and social exclusion to the climate crisis. By confronting false assumptions and dispelling myths, the book challenges readers to see politics as not only the obstacle to development, but also the means to achieve it.
The Politics of Development is grounded in the everyday challenges facing people around the world in accessing the vital resources they need to survive and thrive. It illustrates the unavoidable reality that politics shapes who gets what, when, how; whether in family settings, local communities, national stages or global arenas. It provides readers with a clear roadmap for action centred on institutions, interests, and ideas, to better navigate competing demands and push forward profound change.
There are no easy answers to the politics of development – instead, this book provides the analytical tools to understand why getting development right can be so hard and how you can positively respond to some of the critical challenges facing governments, societies and citizens around the world today.
This text is essential reading for any student of the politics of development or Development Studies, at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Claire Mcloughlin is Associate Professor of Politics and Development, University of Birmingham, UK
Sameen Ali is Assistant Professor of International Development, University of Birmingham, UK
Kailing Xie is Assistant Professor of International Development, University of Birmingham, UK
Nicholas Cheeseman is Professor of Democracy and International Development, University of Birmingham, UK
David Hudson is Professor of Politics and Development, University of Birmingham, UK
This book is destined to become essential reading in any university courses that consider the politics of development. It expertly unpicks the essentially political and painful nature of development, the core role of ‘contestation’, and the ideas, interests and institutions involved in both driving and blocking the expansion of the freedoms to be and to do that Amartya Sen identified as the true heart of human development. A wonderful addition to the literature.
Development is political. That is the powerful and indisputable message of the authors of this book. Scholars and practitioners take note and start with this terrific and authoritative book.
Development is messy, contested, and deeply political. It impacts all aspects of our lives, especially if we are in particularly deprived communities and countries. It shapes age old problems like corruption, and more recent challenges like the climate crisis. The beauty of this book is that it covers the vast span of development, and its power-laden nature, in an engaging, accessible, and knowledgeable manner. It will be an excellent addition to reading lists.
The Politics of Development is an invaluable resource, bringing together in one place a lively and accessible overview of the politics of power, contestation and change. Not to be missed on any reading list in development studies.
The Politics of Development is clear and persuasive. It is centred on how institutions are shaped by people’s interests, and the importance of ideas to understand when development does, or doesn’t, happen. An important and lucid contribution in understanding how politics shape development.
The Politics of Development is an insightful and thought-provoking book that illuminates the inherent link between politics and development. It offers a comprehensive framework to better understand global power dynamics and empowers readers to actively transform the world. A must-read for students of development everywhere.
