1st Edition

Politics in Developing Countries

By Damien Kingsbury Copyright 2019
    236 Pages 2 B/W Illustrations
    by Routledge

    236 Pages 2 B/W Illustrations
    by Routledge

    Politics in Developing Countries provides a clear and reader-friendly introduction to the key factors and themes that shape political processes in developing countries. Achieving development outcomes such as reducing poverty and inequality is only possible through efficient governance, well-planned policies and careful allocation of resources, but often politics in developing countries has been identified with mismanagement, corruption, conflict and repression of dissent. This book assesses the politics of developing countries in the period since decolonisation, focusing on the ways in which states have or have not worked to the advancement of their citizens’ interests. Key topics include:

    • Colonialism and its legacy
    • Ethnicity and nation building
    • Governance, corruption and the role of the state
    • Poverty and the political economy of development
    • Aid and outside influence.

    Drawing on a range of case studies from around the world, Politics in Developing Countries looks at the consistencies and variations between developing countries, examining why some have forestalled political change by liberalising their economies, and others have actively stifled calls for change. Wide-ranging and engagingly written, this introductory textbook is perfect for students of politics and international development, as well as for those with a general interest in the challenges faced by countries in the Global South.

    Foreword 

    1. ‘Development’ and ‘Politics’ in Developing-Country Contexts 

    2. Colonialism and its Legacies 

    3. Ethnicity and Nation-building 

    4. Authority and Democracy 

    5. Poverty and the Political Economy of Development 

    6. Aid, Influence and Development 

    7. Economic Structuring and Trade Relations 

    8. Beijing Consensus vs the Washington Consensus 

    9. The Military in Politics 

    10. On Democratisation 

    11. Timing and Sequencing of Political Transitions 

    12. Sovereignty and Strategic Relations 

    13. Critical Reflections on Politics in Developing Countries

    Biography

    Damien Kingsbury holds a Personal Chair in the Faculty of Arts and Education, is Professor of International Politics in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences and is Director of the Masters of International and Community Development at Deakin University, Australia.