| Kommentar |
This course is largely about income in three guises: growth (changes in average income per head in countries); inequality (the dispersion of income between and within countries); and poverty (insufficient income). For sure, income is not all that there is, but it is a fundamental component of human development. The ranking of countries according to the UN Human Development Index is broadly in line with that based on income per capita; and the developed economies are also at the top of achievements in human development, while the low-income countries in most cases show a poor record. Moreover, disparities in life expectancy across countries and within countries tend also to be correlated with income gaps. Therefore, focusing on economic growth – or the lack of it – and the disparities in income between countries and within countries is well justified if one wants to understand the potential for countries and individuals to improve their living standards. The course introduces the participants into key debates and issues in the field.
By the end of the course students are expected to be familiar with the main debates surrounding economic growth, inequality and poverty. Also, they will be able to identify the impact of key factors behind income outcomes as well as to analyse the interconnection between the key leading themes. In particular, participants will develop the capacity to critically examine interventions aimed at reducing inequality and alleviating poverty. The course also offers them the opportunity to sharpen practical skills such as: working effectively in a team, searching and managing specialised information, preparing focused presentations, developing arguments based on theory and evidence, and improving their writing skills. |
