The aim of this course, which will be taught by faculty from the EE Department 06 Economics and Finance and guest speakers, is to provide the basic knowledge people need to understand contemporary economic and social development in China, and its integration with the world. We will also explore basic theories of underdevelopment, growth and social transition and apply these theories to understand China and its social-economic policies from a comparative perspective. We hope to raise awareness about the challenges facing China and a number of global issues resulting from its rapid development. Areas under the spotlight will include the expansion in world trade and investment, the energy shortage, food price inflation, environmental degradation and several other significant issues.