One of the problems with the idea of and studies on development is that because it is hostage to various ideologies and philosophies, since WWII it has become a vast and unwieldy subject. The value in this book is that each piece of it contains a valuable microcosm of writing on a wide range of topics included under the umbrella of development, by some of the best writers in each area, which go on to provide further reading sources if you wish to expand your knowledge. The clear way in which it is set out and the expertise of the writers helps to clarify what can be a confusing jungle of ideas and models - I wish it had been around when I was an undergraduate!