exam 2 week 8 Flashcards
What is the main argument of Post-development theory?
Post-development critiques universal development models and promotes diverse, locally-rooted alternatives to socio-economic progress. It challenges the traditional notion of development and advocates for alternatives to development, as seen in Wolfgang Sachs’ 1992 publication, where he declared development as a “ruin” in the intellectual landscape.
What were the key influences on the development of Post-development theory in the 1980s?
The early writings of Esteva, Escobar, Rehnema, Rist, and Latouche were influenced by scholars like Ivan Illich, Michel Foucault, Mohandas Gandhi, and Frantz Fanon. Illich critiqued Western industrial modernity, Foucault focused on power dynamics in knowledge construction, Gandhi advocated for decentralized village republics, and Fanon critiqued colonialism and European development approaches.
What were Ivan Illich’s critiques on Western modernity and development aid?
Ivan Illich critiqued Western modernity for creating dependency on institutions like doctors, schools, and churches, undermining autonomy. He argued against development aid in Latin America, stating it created counterproductive needs and neglected essential local goods and services. He advocated for “convivial politics,” promoting autonomy and self-help through accessible technologies and energy.
What were Michel Foucault’s contributions to understanding power, knowledge, and truth?
Michel Foucault analyzed the interplay between knowledge and power, revealing how truth is shaped by historical and social contexts. He cautioned against assuming universal truth, highlighting its dependence on the prevailing “regime of truth” in society. Foucault also introduced the concept of discourse, a system of representation intertwined with power relations, which influences behavior.
What were Frantz Fanon’s views on post-colonial independence?
Frantz Fanon engaged in anti-colonial movements, particularly in Algeria, and witnessed the brutality of French colonization. He warned against the rise of post-colonial elites, cautioning that political independence alone could perpetuate oppression. He urged Third World countries to reject European models and forge unique paths toward liberation and self-determination.
What were Mohandas Gandhi’s contributions to post-development thought?
Mohandas Gandhi advocated for decentralized governance, promoting village republics as an alternative to centralized state power. He emphasized living a “simple life” and critiqued consumerism, which inspired post-development scholars. Gandhi also criticized technological progress and wealth concentration, advocating for equitable distribution and societal betterment.
How did “development” emerge after World War II?
“Development” emerged during decolonization post-World War II, primarily as a geopolitical tool to maintain Western dominance. President Truman’s “development” program aimed at containing communism rather than providing humanitarian aid. This created a perception of inferiority among “underdeveloped” nations, fostering a sense of inadequacy and dependency.
What is the critique of Western standards in the context of development discourse?
Western norms homogenized diverse cultures as “underdeveloped.” Statistical measurements overlooked cultural richness, distorting perceptions of poverty. Examples like Tepito and Ladakh show how external influences can alter self-perception and exacerbate poverty.
How is economic growth traditionally measured, and what alternatives are suggested?
Measuring economic growth using GDP: GDP focuses on short-lived goods and ignores negative externalities like environmental damage. Alternative indices such as the Gross National Happiness Index and Happy Planet Index offer broader perspectives beyond just economic output.
How did the development era define the “good life”?
The development era linked the “good life” with material wealth and economic growth, neglecting subsistence economies.
What does Vandana Shiva critique about development?
Vandana Shiva critiques development as perpetuating colonization and exploiting women’s labor, and she highlights the narrow definition of poverty as lack of cash income, ignoring deprivation from land enclosures and capitalism’s effects.
How does post-development critique economics?
Post-development criticizes the focus on consumerism and material growth, arguing for well-being beyond just money. It challenges the idea of scarcity and highlights social bonds over market-driven actions, as discussed by thinkers like Escobar and Latouche.
What is Gustavo Esteva’s stance on Western development and consumerism?
Esteva challenges the imposition of Western development ideals on diverse societies, critiques consumerism perpetuated by Western media, and advocates for voluntary frugality. He highlights the devaluation of non-market resources and activities in development discourse.
What is the concept of “Development as an Amoeba”?
Development has evolved beyond just economic growth, incorporating ideas like basic needs, endogenous development, and human development. Despite this evolution, GDP remains a central measure, making “development” a vague and adaptable term. It includes a variety of interventions, from infrastructure projects to social programs, all under the guise of progress.
What are the persistent characteristics of development, as discussed in the concept of “Development as an Amoeba”?
-The imperative of economic growth.
The legitimation of intervention into “less developed” societies.
A Eurocentric view of progress and knowledge attribution.
The utilization of a universal scale for societal comparison.
What are Arturo Escobar’s main critiques of development?
he was a anti development scholar
Development keeps the same old ideas, even when things change.
It often ignores the strengths of local cultures and focuses on what’s “missing.”
It pushes a European view of progress and ignores other ways of knowing and living.
What is depoliticization in development?
It’s when complex issues like poverty are reduced to simple technical problems, ignoring the deeper political causes and power struggles behind them.
What does the term anti-politics machine refer to in development?
It refers to how development interventions, even if they claim neutrality, actually reinforce existing power dynamics and sideline political issues.
What does James Ferguson criticize about mainstream development?
Ferguson exposes how mainstream development ignores power dynamics, sidelining politics and leading to ineffective interventions.
What is the “anti-politics machine” as coined by James Ferguson?
The term “anti-politics machine” refers to how development interventions unintentionally strengthen power imbalances by treating poverty as just a technical issue, ignoring its political and social roots.
What are the reasons behind the end of development according to post-development theory?
Ecological Predicament: Industrialized countries’ productivity relies on unsustainable resource consumption, leading to environmental destruction.
Post-Cold War Geopolitical Shifts: The concept of development loses political and ideological support as universal material well-being remains elusive.
Growing Global Inequality: Despite development efforts, the gap between rich and poor nations widens, with traditional livelihoods destroyed and new ones inaccessible.
What is the ecological predicament related to the end of development?
Industrialized countries’ productivity relies on unsustainable resource consumption, which leads to environmental destruction, making the development model increasingly unviable.
What is Jeffrey David Sachs’ critique of traditional development?
Sachs critiques traditional development for its failure to reduce global disparities and its role in promoting Westernization, which leads to cultural homogenization. He advocates for a post-development approach focusing on equity, well-being, renewable resources, and separating economic growth from environmental harm, particularly addressing issues like climate change.
What is Alternative Development?
Alternative Development seeks to modify traditional development models within existing frameworks.
What are Alternatives to Development?
Alternatives to Development reject traditional development models and prioritize grassroots, community-led initiatives focusing on autonomy, cultural integrity, and local decision-making.
What is Zapatista grassroots governance? mexico
It emphasizes grassroots democracy, equal participation, and community-based decision-making through councils with rotating offices and elected representatives.
What does the Zapatista collective economy focus on?
It relies on collective ownership and production, balancing subsistence agriculture with fair trade practices and prioritizing autonomy from external subsidies.
What is the “hegemonic model” in post-development?
The hegemonic model refers to the dominant socio-political system in a given society.
What does “Undeveloping the North” advocate for?
It advocates for ending the oligarchic lifestyle and promoting regional autonomy.
What does Germany’s radical left culture emphasize in political alternatives?
It emphasizes local autonomy and direct democracy, using consensus-based decision-making and civil disobedience to challenge mainstream politics.
How do anarchist communities contribute to post-development in the North?
Anarchist communities and movements contribute to a diverse political landscape by seeking alternatives to mainstream politics.
What types of initiatives promote alternative economic models focused on sustainability and community well-being in the North?
Initiatives like communes, community-supported agriculture, and local exchange systems promote alternative economic models focused on sustainability and community well-being.
What do critics of the romanticization of post-development argue?
Critics argue that post-development idealizes grassroots movements but overlooks internal power dynamics and desires for modernization, often projecting a “noble savage” stereotype onto communities.
What is the criticism regarding post-development’s acknowledgment of modernity’s achievements?
Critics argue that post-development ignores the positive aspects of modernity and the gains made through development, challenging the notion of development failure.
What are the methodological deficits critics highlight in post-development discourse?
Critics highlight methodological flaws, such as oversimplification and a lack of recognition of diverse perspectives within development processes.
What do critics argue about methodological deficits in post-development discourse?
Critics argue that post-development has methodological flaws such as oversimplification and a lack of recognition of diverse perspectives within development processes.
What is the criticism about the diverse approaches in post-development?
Critics argue that post-development encompasses a spectrum of perspectives, from complete rejection of modernity to integration of modernity and tradition, emphasizing the need for nuanced discussions.
How do Post-development and Anti-development differ in their approach to modernity?
Anti-development rejects modernization as inherently detrimental and exploitative.
Post-development acknowledges the drawbacks of modernization but seeks to navigate a middle ground.
What is the difference in the cultural difference view between Post-development and Anti-development?
Anti-development views cultural diversity as static and central to resistance.
Post-development acknowledges cultural diversity but sees it as dynamic and evolving.
What impact did globalization have on development paradigms in the 1990s?
The emergence of globalization in the early 1990s challenged traditional development theories, prompting a reevaluation of approaches to addressing underdevelopment.
What is the Washington Consensus?
The Washington Consensus refers to a set of neoliberal economic policies advocating for free markets, deregulation, privatization, and trade liberalization.
What is the “East Asian Miracle”?
The “East Asian Miracle” refers to the rapid economic growth and development experienced by East Asian countries, particularly China and South Korea, fueled by industrialization and export-oriented policies.
What is Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)?
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is investment made by a company or individual in businesses or assets located in another country.
What is new about globalization?
Globalization integrates the world more profoundly through modern capitalism, diminishing barriers of time and space due to advances in communication and transportation.
What are the two fault lines in globalization discussed in the slide?
1.Wealth disparities persist: Despite reduced global poverty, wealth distribution disparities remain, with advanced capitalist nations maintaining dominance in financial assets and investments.
2.Africa and development: Despite some progress, economic development in African countries remains uneven and vulnerable to external market fluctuations, often failing to improve social conditions.
How does globalization affect state sovereignty?
Globalization weakens the authority of nation-states, particularly in economic matters, as multinational corporations and financial institutions gain more influence.
What is the impact of globalization on traditional political structures?
Globalization makes traditional political frameworks based on the nation-state model obsolete, with powerful countries and international bodies controlling critical economic decisions, often excluding developing nations.
What is financialization?
Financialization is the process where economies prioritize the finance sector over productive activities, driven by neoliberal policies, resulting in large financial institutions accumulating vast wealth, contributing to economic instability and inequality.
How did the 2007-2008 financial crisis impact global economies?
The 2007-2008 financial crisis, originating in the US, spread globally, causing significant revenue losses in developing countries, especially those reliant on resource exports. The crisis exacerbated economic instability worldwide.
What were the reform initiatives in the Global South aimed at?
The initiatives led by center-left governments in South America and China aimed to shift away from the dominance of the United States and its G7 allies, with proposals to reform major international institutions like the United Nations, World Bank, IMF, and the World Trade Organization.
What was the role of regional bodies like Mercosur and ASEAN in the Global South’s reform initiatives?
Mercosur and ASEAN were strengthened to promote regional economic cooperation as part of the Global South’s efforts to challenge globalization.
What is the BRICS alliance, and what does it aim to achieve
The BRICS alliance (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) emerged as an informal coalition seeking greater global market access and challenging the dominance of Western powers.
Why did the reform efforts in the Global South stall?
Despite initial momentum, reform efforts to challenge global economic structures were stalled by the end of the first decade of the millennium due to economic challenges like China’s period of slow growth and declining commodity prices.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect global economies, particularly China?
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing economic vulnerabilities, particularly for China, leading to internal and external economic difficulties.
How did slowing economic growth impact politics and social conditions in many countries?
Slowing economic growth contributed to political and social confrontations, often resulting in the downfall of reformist governments, particularly those influenced by right-wing elements.
What is global civil society?
Global civil society refers to the collective action of individuals and organizations operating across national borders, expressing discontent with globalization through protests, movements, and networks.
What is the role of the “alter-globalist” movement?
The “alter-globalist” movement challenges neoliberal globalization by advocating for alternatives to it.
What movements symbolize grassroots resistance against neoliberal policies and globalization?
Movements like the Zapatistas in Mexico and protests in Seattle symbolize resistance against neoliberal policies and globalization.
what do movements like the Arab Spring and Occupy Wall Street represent?
They reflect widespread dissatisfaction with economic disparities and social injustices.
What does de-globalization advocate for?
De-globalization advocates for a form of global integration prioritizing social solidarity, equity, and democratic decision-making over the dominance of capital.
Does de-globalization advocate for isolation?
No, de-globalization does not advocate for isolation but for systemic alternatives addressing inequality, poverty, economic destruction, and authoritarianism through transformative practices.
How does the pursuit of economic growth impact environmental sustainability?
The relentless pursuit of economic growth undermines environmental sustainability. A shift towards meeting human needs without compromising the planet’s health is crucial.
What action is necessary to prevent catastrophic climate change effects?
Immediate, significant action is necessary to prevent catastrophic climate change effects, as decades of warnings about resource exploitation have been ignored.
What role do social movements play in climate action?
With governments often slow to act, social movements have become key actors in advocating for climate action and inclusive politics.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic influence climate change and social justice?
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the power of global solidarity and collective action in tackling climate change and social injustices.
What does the concept of “Buen Vivir” represent?
“Buen Vivir” (also known as “sumak kawsay” or “suma quamaña”) encapsulates the indigenous concept of living well in harmony with community and nature, rejecting Western development paradigms.
What does the rise of world trade highlight in terms of global economic growth?
There has been a significant surge in global trade, especially in booming Asian economies, while the poorest countries see limited gains.
What does the perspective of “Free Trade” advocate for?
Free trade advocates for removing barriers to trade and minimizing state intervention, citing historical examples of economic growth driven by free trade principles. It is rooted in neoliberal thinking, where competition enhances economic growth.
How does “Fair Trade” challenge the global trading system?
Fair trade challenges the unequal terms of trade, arguing that market regulations should protect weaker nations and create a more equitable global trading system. It is rooted in underdevelopment and dependency theory, recognizing the unequal exchange between primary commodities and industrial goods.
What is “Embedded Liberalism” and when was it established?
Embedded liberalism refers to the combination of state intervention with liberal trade objectives. It was established in 1944 during the Bretton Woods Conference, post-World War II.
What was the goal of fair trade initiatives in 1964?
Fair trade initiatives like UNCTAD aimed at wealth transfer from the Global North to the Global South and sought to create fairer trade terms, though they faced opposition from wealthy nations.
What led to the resurgence of free trade policies in 1980?
Neoliberal structural adjustment policies (SAPs) in 1980 led to a resurgence of free trade policies, with institutions like the WTO promoting market liberalization.
What is the primary purpose of fair trade initiatives?
Fair trade initiatives emerged as a response to the dominance of free trade policies. They advocate for the fair treatment of workers and small farmers and seek to create more equitable trading practices.
What is the fair trade network and what does it emphasize?
The fair trade network connects producers in the Global South with consumers in the Global North. It emphasizes democratic organization, no exploitation, environmental sustainability, and fair prices.
What were the findings of investigations in 2013 and 2014 regarding fair trade?
In-depth investigations raised questions about the effectiveness of fair trade initiatives in improving the livelihoods of communities in the Global South. It was found that fair trade had modest or limited benefits to farmers’ income, minimal impact on poverty reduction, and faced challenges in addressing gender inequality and improving working conditions.
What was the impact of fair trade on farmers and poverty reduction?
Fair trade provided modest or limited benefits to farmers’ income, had minimal impact on poverty reduction, and faced challenges in addressing gender inequality and improving working conditions.
What is a major critique of bilateral free trade agreements?
Bilateral free trade agreements are criticized for discriminating against non-members, obstructing genuine free trade negotiations within multilateral frameworks like the WTO.
What is often prioritized in trade agreements over social and environmental concerns?
Trade agreements often prioritize corporate interests over social and environmental concerns, contributing to the perception that they are not genuinely about freeing trade.
What is Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS)?
ISDS is a mechanism that allows foreign investors to sue host countries for alleged violations of investment agreements. It prioritizes protecting the property rights of transnational corporations over state intervention for social, environmental, or developmental concerns.
What is the ideological critique of free trade discourse?
The ideological critique argues that the concept of “free trade” serves as an ideological tool to maintain the hegemonic dominance of Northern elites. Institutions like the World Bank sustain this narrative through reports and policies that reinforce the idea of separate wealth accumulation and poverty reduction.
What are the emerging Southern powers and how have they influenced international trade?
Emerging giants like China, India, and Brazil have become major players in international trade, leading to improved social indicators and enhanced political influence.
How has trade between Southern countries influenced global trade dynamics?
Trade between Southern countries has increased significantly, challenging traditional trade dynamics that were dominated by Northern powers.
What are the shifting trade dynamics and policies due to Southern powers?
Southern powers have influenced trade policy and politics, leading to a reevaluation of what constitutes trade success. Pragmatic trade policies aimed at promoting human development alongside economic growth are gaining prominence, challenging the dominance of free trade ideologies.
What is South-South Cooperation, and how does it benefit small island states like St. Vincent and the Grenadines?
South-South Cooperation refers to the collaboration and partnership between countries in the Global South to address common development challenges and promote shared growth. Small island states like St. Vincent and the Grenadines turn to partnerships with other Southern nations for support and development initiatives. Creative collaborations with countries like Venezuela and Cuba demonstrate the potential for mutual assistance and shared development goals.
What is the challenge to the concept of comparative advantage, and how do economists Justin Lin and Ha-Joon Chang differ in their perspectives?
The concept of comparative advantage is being challenged by economists like Justin Lin and Ha-Joon Chang. Lin advocates for “dynamic comparative advantage,” which emphasizes government intervention to promote industrial policy and technological advancement. In contrast, Chang proposes that developing countries should “defy comparative advantage” by protecting and nurturing industries for long-term growth.
What are the differing views on the role of the state in trade policy, as suggested by Lin and Chang?
The debate between Lin and Chang highlights differing views on the role of the state in managing markets. Lin suggests a “facilitating state” to gradually encourage private-sector development, while Chang argues for active government intervention to nurture industries. Ultimately, trade policy decisions are influenced by the political and economic interests of states and corporations.
