Course Description

This course examines the ways in which poverty and inequality affect the lives of people around the world, with a special focus on the lives of young people. It is also related to critical issues relative to social and economic development, which pertain to sustainability, progress and civilization building. Some of the questions that the course will focus on are such as: What are the challenges faced by people living in poverty? To what extent are inequality trends transforming societies and bringing about new forms of poverty? What actions can individuals and organizations take to help young people better meet these challenges? We examine these questions in the context of current debates over international development as well as case studies of organizations involved in the fight against poverty.

Course Learning Outcomes

On completing the course, students will be able to:

1. Critically analyze the concepts of poverty and development and how they are used in various contexts.
2. Examine the strategies used by individuals and organizations, including nations, multilateral agencies, foundations, corporations, and individuals, to reduce poverty and promote sustainable development.
3. Reflect on ways to reduce poverty and promote development, by assessing cases of poverty internationally and in Hong Kong.

Offer Semester and Day of Teaching

First semester (Wed)