Latin American Economic Development

MPP 635

(3 units)

This course explores the main economic policies implemented in the Latin American region during the 20th and 21st centuries. There will be a special focus on understanding what type of economic policies were implemented, how and why economic policy changed over time, the impact of the policies implemented, the implication of these policies for economic development, and the problems that policy makers in Latin America face in terms of promoting economic development in the region. Some of the topics covered include export-led growth, import substitution, industrialization, debt crisis, neoliberalism, inequality, populism, and leftist movements. In addition, some discussion related to United States and Latin America relations will be part of the course. From a political economy perspective, the course intends to provide the student with an overview of the economic history of Latin America and the current challenges for economic development in the region.