An in depth study of some of the major contemporary theories about the causes and explanations of low levels of development as well as corresponding recommendations for promoting development at a national/international level. The main focus is on the primary causal factors of national development emphasized by different contemporary theories. Such factors include economic institutions and policies; political institutions and governance; cultural and religious orientations and practices; human rights; geography, natural resources, and the natural environment; technology; social capital and civil society; and globalization/imperialism. Prerequisite: IDS 201, SPHO 205 or permission of instructor.