DEVP0012 explores the theoretical base and implications for development planning and practice of market- and civil society-led approaches to development; contrasting these, where applicable, with state-oriented approaches. You will examine different, and in some cases, competing conceptions of ‘bottom-of-the-pyramid’, livelihoods, payment for ecosystem services (PES) and ‘making markets work for the poor’ or market systems development (M4P or MSD) approaches that permeate much contemporary development policy and practice as well as considering the potential for innovative models to promote development along with the developmental contradictions and possibilities inherent in notions of corporate responsibility.

Central to this pursuit lies an understanding of how variations in development approaches translate into divergent understandings of the roles that should be played in developmental processes by different actors. As such, you will be asked to consider both conceptual and practical positions, looking for coherent arguments that help form a broad personal basis for an approach to development as a process or an outcome. Module sessions will look at the differing roles played by private sector, civil society, state and other groups in understanding and attempting to tackle environmental and social challenges, including climate change and ecosystem degradation, poverty reduction and economic exclusion.

You will examine core arguments, such as the ‘stakeholder paradox’ that potentially limits full corporate engagement with critical social and environmental objectives, as well as the thinking behind conceptions of ‘inclusivity’ in markets. You will be asked to consider the degree to which differing governance models, including that of social enterprise, offer a meaningful response to such dilemmas, and the degree to which commodification of ecosystems services offers a means of tackling some of the most critical challenges facing peoples and countries globally.

The module will provide historical and ethical foundations, encouraging you to formulate a critical understanding of development theory and practice.

Case studies and examples provide a strong pedagogical tool, drawing from different continents and regions, including Asia, Africa and Latin America and the Caribbean, and reflect a concern with the models of development employed by donors and countries of the Global North, as well as by those in the Global South. They are used, along with debates, lectures and classroom participation, to illustrate sessions and to foster debate and discussion.

Delivery Methods:

Each session consists of a lecture and a seminar or debate. You are required to read two key readings prior to each session. The lecturer will provide, when necessary, additional material relevant to the topic.

Slide presentations will be made available through UCL’s Moodle platform.