This second edition of Development Economics: Theory and Practice continues to provide students and practitioners with the perspectives and tools they need to think analytically and critically about the current major economic development issues in the world.


Alain de Janvry and Elisabeth Sadoulet identify seven key dimensions of development-growth, poverty, vulnerability, inequality, basic needs, sustainability, and quality of life-and use them to structure the contents of the text. The book gives a historical perspective on the evolution of thought in development. It uses theory and empirical analysis to present readers with a full picture of how development works, how its successes and failures can be assessed, and how alternatives can be introduced. The authors demonstrate how diagnostics, design of programs and policies, and impact evaluation can be used to seek new solutions to the suffering and violence caused by development failures.


In the second edition, more attention has been given to ongoing developments, such as:








pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals







continuously rising global and national inequality







health as a domestic and international public good







cash transfers for social protection







carbon trading for sustainability


This text is fully engaged with the most cutting-edge research in the field and equips readers with analytical tools for impact evaluation of development programs and policies, illustrated with numerous examples. It is underpinned throughout by a wealth of student-friendly features, including case studies, quantitative problem sets, end-of-chapter questions, and extensive references. The companion website contains Excel and Stata exercises for students alongside materials for instructors.


This unique text is ideal for those taking courses in development economics, economic growth, and development policy, and will provide an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue careers in development.