Unit Code: SOP802

Unit Name: Critical Issues in Development Thought and Social Policy

Description: Socio-economic development in the developing countries, including the Pacific island, continue to be addressed with policies that have their origins in both classical and contemporary economic and social theories.This unit explores the key aspects of these theories and the principles and methods that they underscore in the analysis of public/social issues and the policy solutions that they inform. Critical issues such as globalization, diversity and more recently climate change will be addressed with reference to Fiji and other Pacific Island countries. Policy areas in Fiji?s development, especially those relating to investments, health, education and more recently poverty alleviation will be covered. These will be examined againgst the backdrop of development frameworks provided by the key international development institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund and how these interface with issues of national sovereignty. The challenges to these policy issues by the threat of climate change will be explored especially with reference to regional (and national) efforts in seeking sustainable solutions. While broad examples will be considered primary emphasis will be on of Fiji?s socio-economic development and its policy responses.

Learning Target Outcomes:

Prerequisite: N/A

Prerequisite Sentence: A B+ average in any undergraduate degree

Credit Point: 30

Offered In: Semester 1