Leading Issues in Economic Development

This is a book written for students and researchers working in the field of Development Economics. Virtually all areas of the field are covered and most of the most important articles that have been published on the development of the economy are in it. More advanced readers will however notice that some articles that should been in this book are missing. It is nevertheless an incredible help for all those who want to get a good oversight or a good reference in the latest research in Development Economics. The style is naturally very technical, however the authors are helping with comments and case study examples, which makes the understanding of the areas that they cover a lot more easy. Five stars are awarded for this book, as it really is an excellent anthology for all those involved in the subject of Development Economics.

This book is a very good introduction to development economics for those who have some background in economics. The book does assume some prior knowledge of concepts and terminology, as it seeks to address many of the main contemporary issues related to development. There is a definite bias of focus on Third World developing countries rather than transitional or developed countries.The issues addressed include the more traditional ones (such as poverty reduction, trade policy, population issues, financing issues) coupled with some newer areas of debate (such as the specific role of women in development). Most interesting I found the section on industrial and technological progress, which follows from the classical eocnomics argument that there should be no indsutrial policy. As it is a compilation of arguments, it does not go terribly in depth in any of the subjects, but offers enough references for those who wish to do so.For the introductory student of development, this is an essential compilation. For the more advanced student, this is great reference and the bibliography is a list of important works.

I found this book extremely useful for understanding development economics. It provides a variety of different approaches and theories with clear explanations from the editors. A great source that I recommend strongly.

Meier's book provides an excellent tool for anyone interested in Development Economics. Most, if not all, of the important development theories and issues have been covered in a clear and concise way. Amongst the contributors, many are notable economists and scholars such as: Chenery, Stiglitz, Bardhan, Nurske, Sen, Lewis, Todaro, Krueger, Ranis, Rosenstein-Rodan, Hirschman- to name but a few. This book has truly been the most useful reference tool from my first year to final year as an undergraduate reading development economics. Particularly interesting and useful chapters include: Dualistic Development(Lewis Model etc.), Debt and Aid, Population, Trade Strategy, and an awesome section on Industrialisation and Technological Progress.A must buy for students of Development!

A concise and but detailed review of the most important issues in agricultural development. The text includes new and important perspectives on issues in development. Topics covered include dualistic development, domestic financing of development, external financing of development, human resourses, industrialisation and agriculture and trade/development. This is an excellent reference book as well as a very interesting read. It is uptodate and enables the reader to quickly grasp the main themes. Also includes comprehensive references for futher reading. Very good value!