Course Description:
The primary objective of this seminar is to discuss some of the controversies regarding the relationship between human rights and development (international, comparative and transnational). The first part of the seminar will introduce the students to the foundational concepts of human rights and international development from legal, philosophical, economic, political, and historical perspectives. Its departure point is the philosophical tradition that rooted in the nature of the human person. Following the introduction, the seminar will shift to explore the application of human rights and international development theories to a series of issues such as environmental justice, womens rights, land rights, health, housing, and the role of international financial systems and multinational corporation. The course will conclude with discussions on how international development and human rights movements can effectively address the challenge of global poverty.