121-110 Famine in the Modern World

Formerly available as 121-010. Students who have completed 121-010 are not eligible to enrol in this subject. Formerly available as 121-101. Students who have completed 121-101 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

This subject is an evaluation of two contrasting theories of famine. The 'Malthusian' theory argues that famine is a matter of the balance of population and environmental resources. Evidence is drawn together from demography, environmental change and degradation, and the environmental impact of the green revolution. The 'political economy' theory argues that famine is a matter of the distribution of food. Evidence is drawn together to explain differences in access to food within and between societies, including the implications of agribusiness and the global food trade and the effect of war on food supply. The subject also considers the ways in which aid, food, and development policies are informed by these theories. Students who complete the subject should be familiar with these theories and the causes, extent, and possible solutions to famine and food problems.

A 2-hour examination (30%), and written work totaling 2000 words comprised of an essay (40%), and practical/tutorial assignments (30%).