This course explores the complex and multifaceted relationship between agriculture and economic development.  The readings will introduce the ‘big issues’ in agriculture, food systems and rural development and how economics can serve in the analysis and evaluation of tradeoffs between various economic, social and environmental goals that are targeted under ‘sustainable development’ such as food security, biodiversity, rural development and equity.  At the end of the course, students are expected 1) to develop an understanding of the historic and contemporary issues that shaped the debate on the relationship between agricultural policy and economic development 2) to become familiar with various methodologies to evaluate tradeoffs in achieving goals associated with ‘development’ and ‘sustainable agriculture’ 3) to formulate research questions and explore various methodologies dealing with a specific issue in the field.