Thinking about Development

Bjorn Hettne is Professor Emeritus of Peace and Development Studies at Gothenburg University. His main research has been in India, and he has written a large number of books and articles on development theory, global regionalism, international relations, the development-security nexus, as well as Europe and the world order.

• Introduction: Development studies and development thinking1. Theoretical framework2. The original transition3. The pursuit of progress4. The modernisation imperative5. Planning in 'dark times'6. The geopolitics of poverty7. Globalization and disorder8. In search of global developmentConclusion: Towards global social theory

'This scholarly yet accessible and clearly-written book should be read by everyone with an interest in current global issues. Rescuing critical development thinking from the 'cul de sac' of the post-developmentalists, Hettne argues that a concept of global development remains central to the rethinking and restucturing of international relationships if we are to engage fully with the demands of an emerging multipolar world order.' David Lewis, London School of Economics and Political Science 'Thinking about Development is a clear and concise introduction to the idea of development from one of the most established scholars in the field. Looking at past and present Hettne forces us to think about possible future scenarios. This is essential reading for those new to development thinking and practice as well as a great refresher for those who feel disconnected from the bigger picture that global development represents.' Jelke Boesten, University of Leeds 'Bjorne Hettne's timely and compelling book puts development into a much needed historical perspective with a forceful and convincing interpretation of development in the past and in today's global era. A must read for all development scholars and practitioners who take seriously the need to bring the insights of development studies to what Hettne rightly argues is required today - new global social theory.' Wendy Harcourt Editor of 'Development'