LECO
3038

The Global South Today: Development and Social Change

Eugene Lang College Lib Arts: Economics

Liberal Arts
Undergraduate Course
The Global South Today
Fall 2025
Taught By: Ying Chen
Section: AX

CRN: 17843

Credits: 4

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the Global South, examining its historical context, contemporary challenges, and future trajectories. Students will engage with key concepts such as developing countries, the Third World, and emerging economies, critically analyzing how these terms are used in various contexts and how they shape our understanding of global dynamics. The course will begin by defining the Global South and related terminologies, exploring their implications in the global political economy discourse. Through a historical lens, we will investigate the colonial legacies and social movements that have shaped those countries. As we transition to current challenges, students will analyze issues such as poverty, inequality, political instability, and ecological degradation. We will also discuss potential paths forward, focusing on strategies to reach economic, ecological and social justice. The overarching goal of this course is to equip students with a critical perspective on the Global South, enabling them to navigate and challenge Western-centric narratives. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to apply their understanding to real-world contexts, fostering a more nuanced dialogue around global issues.

Prerequisites: No Prerequisites
Co-Requisites: No Co-requisites

College: Eugene Lang College Lib Arts (LC)

Department: Economics (ECO)

Campus: New York City (GV)

Course Format: Seminar (R)

Modality: In-Person

Max Enrollment: 18

Repeat Limit: N/A

Add/Drop Deadline: September 9, 2025 (Tuesday)

Online Withdrawal Deadline: November 17, 2025 (Monday)

Seats Available: Yes

Status: Open*

* Status information is updated every few minutes. The status of this course may have changed since the last update. Open seats may have restrictions that will prevent some students from registering. Updated: 4:16am EDT 3/10/2025

Meeting Info:
Days: Wednesday
Times: 9:00am - 11:40am
Building: TBD
Room: TBD
Date Range: 8/27/2025 - 12/15/2025