The Global Social Change Reader: Development in an Unequal World explores development, globalization, and inequality within and between countries. This introductory anthology gives readers an overview of social change since World War II—change driven by public and private sector agents at the international, national, and local levels.

The book is organized into five main sections, which cover developmental indicators, theories, and critiques; globalization; institutions and elements of development; special topics, including the environment, gender, poverty, health, population, and ideology; and the future of globalization and development around the world. Readers learn about theory, policy, and practices as viewed through diverse perspectives from academics and practitioners in the field.

The second edition includes new readings that address contemporary global issues and critique the use of standard economic evaluators to determine a country's success and a population's welfare. Other changes include updated readings and coverage on the effects of global processes on gender, organized crime in an international context, rising nationalism, the interaction of digital technology and trade, and more.

The Global Social Change Reader is well-suited to introductory courses in sociology, political science, and international relations.