This exciting book is a tour de force, spanning a broad range of approaches to development. It does not stop at critique, as so many previous books on these issues have done, but offers a unique perspective on future possibilities and the shape of things to come. It should be essential reading on all development studies courses. - Andrea Cornwall, Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex Praise for the previous edition: "This marvellous book should be read by every social scientist interested in development studies". - Keith Griffin, University of California, Riverside This is the second edition of this successful book. Written by one of the leading authorities in the field, it: Situates students in the expanding field of development theory. Provides an unrivalled guide to the strengths and weaknesses of competing theoretical approaches. Explains key concepts. Examines the shifts in theory. Offers an agenda for the future. Jan Nederveen brings together a huge range of experience and knowledge about the relationship between the economically advanced and the emerging, developing nations.