Introduces conceptual, structural and pragmatic issues in social development and offers a knowledge base and analytical framework for working with a global perspective in Australia or overseas. Controversies in development theory are examined. Global problems are addressed via studying policies adopted to address them. A range of social theories and ideologies justifying these policies are also examined. Issues may include: the colonial legacy, poverty, population growth and movement, gender inequity, multi-national corporations, international loans and Third World debt, environmental degradation, war, refugees, indigenous peoples' rights. Relevant policy theory, including development and analysis, are introduced to help understand the various issue and policy case studies addressed. A social justice, human rights and community development paradigm is used to analyse policies and approaches to deal with these issues.