Introduction to Development Studies

Africa has witnessed massive changes in the last fifty years - from independence through structural adjustment, rule by military juntas in several countries and to a period now where the focus is on how best to prioritize their needs based on resources, national goals and human potential.

Developing countries have made rapid but highly varied progress since the 1990s. So much so that the boundaries to the traditional industrialized countries have become partially blurred. On the other hand, there are a number of mostly fragile states that have not succeeded in doing so, or have only rudimentarily succeeded. Talk of one "Third World" and common development problems thus explains little. Instead, development has become a requirement for all states, which this textbook breaks down and assesses according to key development goals.

This textbook explores ethical issues for not-for-profit and non-governmental organizations, providing discussion-oriented cases for NFP and NGP practitioners. The book begins with an introduction to professional ethics as practiced in industry, not-for-profits and NGO’s. Attention is paid both to classical ethical theories and contemporary variants. Then, combining that theory with an introduction to the morally unique facets of the NFP and NGO landscape, it offers a series of cases which pertain to the underlying theoretical substrate. The reader will find a blend of theory and application within the text as well as guided assignment prompts. Themes covered include board relationships, staff management, work with vulnerable populations, financial transparency, Human Resources ethics and ethical dilemmas unique to international operations.