VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Social and Cultural Aspects of International Development Cooperation
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:29:01
Abstract
In this course, social and cultural dynamics of international development cooperation are analysed, discussed, and connected to contemporary development cooperation activities and projects. Themes to be focused on include the impacts of colonisation in development cooperation, decolonisation, migration, gender, racism, and education.
Objective
The learning goal is for students to critically reflect on the influences of these themes on the design and implementation of development cooperation interventions, as well as: - display basic knowledge of selected topics on social and cultural aspects of development cooperation - consider which social, cultural and psychological factors influence human action, and discuss their importance for development cooperation - explain different conceptions of development in western and non-western cultures and indicate possible consequences for development projects
Content
Raising awareness on selected cultural and social aspects of development issues and their relevance for international development cooperation (DC): - The importance of the concept of "culture" in DC - Slavery, colonialism and decolonisation, and their historical and contemporary relics in DC (racism, white saviour complex, discrimination, white superiority, and so on). - The impacts of social and cultural dynamics on DC - The role of religion in development projects and interventions - The challenges and opportunities of migration in DC - Cross-cutting issues in DC: gender, localisation, and others
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- NDS , WBZ
- Frequency
- Every two years
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
Social and Cultural Aspects of International Development Cooperation
Tuesday, 8.30-12.00
Ort: CLD, A1
|
No time listed | 3 h weekly |
Offered In
-
MAS in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development (The compulsory courses of NADEL are accessible only for students of the MAS in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development and for qualified employees with at least two years experience in development cooperation and a Master's level or equivalent level of education as recognized by ETH. PhD students doing empirical research in development cooperation may be admitted "sur Dossier". The elective courses are open to master students of the ETH with registration/ waiting list. MAS students do have priority.)
-