Introduction
This textbook provides a thorough examination of development economics, combining theoretical
frameworks with practical applications and case studies from across the developing world. Designed for
both advanced undergraduate and graduate students, it emphasises data-driven analysis, policy evaluation,
and real-world problem-solving. The text incorporates contemporary challenges facing developing
nations while providing analytical tools and methodological approaches for understanding and addressing
these issues. The book is expected to be published by Taylor & Francis Group.
Book Structure
SECTION I: FOUNDATIONS OF DEVELOPMENT ECONOMICS
This section establishes the theoretical and conceptual groundwork for understanding economic
development. It explores fundamental concepts, measurement approaches, and classical theories while
introducing students to the complexities of development challenges.
Chapter 1: Understanding and Measuring Economic Development
- Concepts and definitions of development
- Historical perspectives on economic development
- Contemporary approaches to development thinking
- Economic indicators and their limitations
- Human Development Index and alternative measures
- Data analysis and interpretation in development contexts
Chapter 2: Theories and Characteristics of Developing Economies
- Classical development theories
- Structuralist and dependency theories
- Modern growth theories and their applications
- Structural features of underdevelopment
- Common challenges and constraints
- Developmental bottlenecks and barriers
SECTION II: GROWTH, INEQUALITY, AND POVERTY
This section delves into the interconnected challenges of promoting growth while addressing inequality
and poverty. It examines various approaches to inclusive development and explores policy interventions
for balanced growth.
Chapter 3: Economic Growth, Poverty, and Inequality
- Determinants of economic growth
- Growth patterns in developing countries
- Growth strategies and policy implications
- Conceptualising and measuring poverty
- Multidimensional poverty approaches
- Income and wealth distribution
- Policy approaches to reducing inequality
Chapter 4: Human Capital and Labour Markets
- Education, skills, and productivity
- Healthcare and economic development
- Labour markets and employment dynamics in developing countries
SECTION III: DEVELOPMENT POLICY AND GOVERNANCE
This section focuses on the role of institutions, policies, and governance in shaping development
outcomes. It examines various policy interventions and their effectiveness in different contexts.
Chapter 5: Institutional Frameworks, Governance, and Public Finance
- Role of institutions in development
- Governance and economic performance
- Corruption and development challenges
- Fiscal policy and development
- Tax systems in developing countries
- Public expenditure management
Chapter 6: International Finance, Trade, and Development
- Global financial architecture
- Foreign aid and debt management
- International financial institutions
- International trade theory and policy
- Global value chains
- Regional integration and development
SECTION IV: SECTORAL PERSPECTIVES
This section examines key economic sectors and their roles in the development process. It provides detailed analysis of sector-specific challenges and opportunities.
Chapter 7: Agricultural and Rural Development
- Agriculture in developing economies
- Rural development strategies
- Agricultural policy and food security
Chapter 8: Industrialisation and Services Sector Development
- Industrialisation strategies
- Manufacturing sector development
- Technology, innovation, and industrial policy
- Role of services in economic development
- Financial sector development
- Digital economy and transformation
Chapter 9: Infrastructure, Energy, and Transportation
- Physical infrastructure needs
- Energy sector development
- Transportation and communication in development
SECTION V: EMPIRICAL METHODS AND CASE STUDIES
This section introduces advanced empirical methods in development economics and examines successful
development stories from around the world.
Chapter 10: Empirical Methods in Development Economics
- Randomised Control Trials (RCTs) in development
- Impact evaluation techniques
- Statistical techniques for policy evaluation
- Hands-on applications with real data
Chapter 11: Development Success Stories and Lessons
- China’s economic transformation
- Japan and the Asian Tigers
- Development lessons from the USA, EU, and BRICS
- India’s growth story
SECTION VI: CONTEMPORARY DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES
This section addresses current and emerging challenges facing developing countries, including
environmental sustainability, urbanisation, and technological change.
Chapter 12: Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change
- Climate change and development
- Green growth strategies
- Environmental policy frameworks
Chapter 13: Urbanisation and Development
- Urban growth challenges
- Urban planning and management
- Rural-urban linkages
Chapter 14: Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation
- Global development trends and forecasts
- Emerging development paradigms
- Innovation in development policy
- Challenges and opportunities in the digital age
- Digital transformation in development
- Innovation systems and technology policy
- The role of AI and big data in development
Chapter 15: Crisis Management, Resilience, and Sustainable Development Goals
- Crisis response and economic resilience
- The role of social safety nets
- Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Chapter 16: The Future of Development Economics
Special Features
Case studies from diverse developing countries
Data analysis exercises using real-world data
Policy analysis frameworks
End-of-chapter problems and discussion questions
Contemporary development debates
Research methodology guides
Online resources and data links
Target Audience
Advanced undergraduate economics students
Graduate students in development studies and economics
Development practitioners and policymakers
Researchers in development economics
Submission Guidelines
Interested authors should submit an abstract of about 300 words before 30th May 2025 via this FORM
Editorial Team
Dr Joseph Phiri: Head of Macroeconomics Unit, Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) and Scholar at the University of Zambia’s Graduate School of Business
Dr Neema Kumburu: Associate Professor of Public Administration and Policy at the Moshi Co-operative University (MoCU), Tanzania and DIaDeRC ASMN Coordinator for East Africa
Prof. Evans Osabuohien : Professor of Economics at Covenant University and Founding Chair of DIaDeRC (DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre), Nigeria
