Inequality and Poverty in Latin America (Syllabus)

Latin America is the region with the highest levels of income inequality and where inequality has been most persistent. However, during the last decade inequality declined in most countries while it rose in other regions. Through comparative and in-depth country studies this course analyzes the dynamics of income inequality and poverty in the region focusing on the role of markets and the state. The course includes a review of quantitative methods to measure inequality and poverty and the theories and methods to analyze their determinants. Using a qualitative scorecard, students will learn to assess government efforts to reduce inequality and poverty. The course is largely non-technical and open to graduate and undergraduate students in the social sciences.