Globalization and Development Studies
Challenges for the 21st Century
- Frans J Schuurman - University of Nijmegen, Netherlands
This text provides a comprehensive introduction to the concept of globalization and its challenge to the contemporary study of development.
Part I introduces the theoretical issues and debates surrounding globalization, illustrates the often contested nature of the concept, and considers the implications for the future of development studies. Part II reviews more specific theory and policy implications by assessing the impact of globalization to a number of key areas of study in development studies. These include the environment, gender, human rights, multinationals, and urban development.
An essential underlying theme to the book is whether a seeming transition from development studies to global studies is offering anything new and fruitful for our future understanding and study of development.
`As a whole, the book is a useful compilation of rigorous academics papers. The contributions by the editor have woven these into an organic whole, rather than being a conglomerate of uncorrelated works on a common theme' - K B S Sidhu, The Tribune
I will use this book as a recommended reading for my Global Studies undergrad course. The book provides a collection of papers which focus on key issues relating to globalisation and Development Studies and the inter-relationships which exist. I think that the chapter highlight important issues within Global Studies discourse and provide students with a sound understanding of the challenges at hand. Although the book was published in 2001, the topics dealt with are still relevant and important for contemporary discourse regarding global development. In particular, the short papers on each topic will appeal to students looking for focused information on specific topics.
A very topical, interesting and visionary book that links development with globalisation issues. Its multidisciplinary approach makes this a very useful book for the reader seeking an understanding of this growing area of interest.
