Global Development

Global Development in AQA A-Level Sociology examines the social, economic, and political processes that shape development across the world. It critically evaluates traditional and contemporary theories of development, such as modernisation theory, dependency theory, and world systems theory, and explores how global inequalities are maintained and challenged. The topic also investigates the role of international organisations, transnational corporations, and social movements in shaping development outcomes, with a focus on issues like poverty, health, education, and gender inequality.

Understanding Global Development is crucial because it connects local experiences to global structures, helping students see how historical colonialism, neoliberal policies, and globalisation impact different societies. This topic fits within the wider Sociology curriculum by linking to stratification, globalisation, and social change, and it encourages students to think critically about power, agency, and justice. It also prepares students for contemporary debates about sustainable development, climate justice, and global governance.

Students will engage with key case studies, such as the rise of East Asian economies, the impact of structural adjustment programmes in Africa, and the role of microfinance in empowering women. By the end of the topic, students should be able to evaluate competing explanations for global inequality and assess the effectiveness of different development strategies, from top-down aid to grassroots movements.