IR221: Africa and the World: The Political Economy of Development

Africa is a continent of extremes - gleaming cities and rich farmlands, mineral wealth, tech hubs, and hugely competitive elections, but also drought, poverty, and war. Global constraints and opportunities shape politics and economics in dynamic and complex ways.

 Some African countries are growing rapidly, but others are stuck in place with weak states and even declining economies. Where is Africa headed in the 21st century, when by 2050 a quarter of the global population will be African? Will the global economy be an engine of growth, or a straightjacket that ties African countries down? Do global institutions help or hinder prospects for African development? This course explores these questions in a multidisciplinary way.

Students will read some of the best African social scientists writing on growth and the legacies of the past, along with scholars and commentators from around the world who are Africa-watchers and analysts. Classes will be interactive and problem-focused. The course prepares you for work in government, business, diplomacy, NGOs, international and regional organizations, and the development industry, as well as further study of African and the international political economy across the disciplines.

When you complete the course, you will have a better understanding of the economic and social underpinnings of order and conflict, and growth and economic constraints, in African countries. You will know more about evolution of the global economy and institutions over time, and how these can shape development trajectories. You will be able to identify strategies and policies that can support inclusive and sustainable development in the region.

Prerequisites: At least one introductory course in either social science (e.g. political science, international relations, sociology, economics), history or law. 

Level: 200 level. Read more information on levels in our FAQs

Fees: Please see Fees and payments

Lectures: 36 hours

Classes: 18 hours

Assessment: A mid-term essay of 1,500 words (50%) and a final exam (50%)

Typical credit: 3-4 credits (US) 7.5 ECTS points (EU)

Please note: Assessment is optional but may be required for credit by your home institution. Your home institution will be able to advise how you can meet their credit requirements. For more information on exams and credit, read Teaching and assessment

This course is designed for students in the social sciences who are interested in Africa, economic development, natural-resource-based economies, democracy and democratisation, the politics of social diversity, the global economy, and 20th and 21st-century global changes and challenges.

Students go onto a range of professions in international and global affairs, policymaking, the social sciences, and business careers that engage with global economic change, diversity, and uncertainty.

Classes are incredibly diverse - students come together from many countries, with different academic and personal backgrounds, and different interests in and connections to Africa. We expect lively and enriching encounters around basic questions of economy, governance, political voice and representation, and global justice!

• Understand how changes in global context have influenced patterns of development in African countries since the mid-20th century
• Apply social science theories to explain countries' long-term economic growth paths
• Compare politics and economic outcomes across different African states
• Learn how experts from Africa, the US, Europe, and Asia explain global and African economic policy change
• Link empirical and case-based evidence to general theory, and vice versa
• See experiences of particular African countries in broader continental and global context

The design of this course is guided by LSE faculty, as well as industry experts, who will share their experience and in-depth knowledge with you throughout the course.