Development Disrupted: The Global South in the Twenty-First Century

This book explores the effects of rapid technological change on the development of the Global South, tracing the discourse and practice of international development in the twentieth century. It offers a balanced account of the positive and negative impacts of technology, from mobile phones to robotics, on middle and low-income nations, demonstrating that technology is making more things both conceivable and achievable.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Although the impact of rapid technological change is often discussed in relation to the Global North, this book explores its effects on the development of the Global South. By tracing the discourse and practice of international development in the twentieth century, Ruth E. Gordon offers necessary context to current changes in the global hierarchy. The book explores the situation of the Global South within the international legal, political, and economic order, how current development discourse and practice engages modernization efforts, and how technology can bring about significant economic and societal change for middle and low-income nations. It offers a balanced account of the positive and negative impacts of technological change on the Global South, from mobile phones allowing access to knowledge to robotics reducing employment opportunities. This book demonstrates that, for the Global South, technology is making more things both conceivable and achievable.

Introduction:
The impact of rapid technological change is a topic of significant discussion in the global arena, particularly in relation to the Global North. However, it is important to recognize that the effects of this change are not limited to the North alone but also extend to the Global South. This book aims to explore the effects of technological change on the development of the Global South, examining the discourse and practice of international development in the twentieth century. By providing a historical context, the book seeks to shed light on the current changes in the global hierarchy and their implications for the South.

The Situation of the Global South within the International Legal, Political, and Economic Order:
The Global South encompasses a wide range of countries, including many developing nations that face numerous challenges in their quest for development. The international legal, political, and economic order plays a crucial role in shaping the development trajectory of the South. The book examines the position of the Global South within this order, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that arise from its membership.

Engaging Modernization Efforts:
Current development discourse and practice in the Global South are heavily influenced by the pursuit of modernization. The book explores how these efforts engage with the challenges and opportunities presented by technology. It examines how technology can be used to promote economic growth, improve access to education and healthcare, and reduce poverty. However, it also highlights the negative impacts of technology, such as job displacement, environmental degradation, and social inequality.

Technology as a Catalyst for Economic and Societal Change:
The book emphasizes that technology can bring about significant economic and societal change for middle and low-income nations in the Global South. It discusses how mobile phones, for example, have allowed access to knowledge and information, which can empower individuals and communities. It also explores how robotics and automation can reduce employment opportunities, but can also create new job opportunities in emerging sectors.

Balanced Account of the Positive and Negative Impacts:
The book offers a balanced account of the positive and negative impacts of technological change on the Global South. It recognizes that technology can be a powerful tool for development, but also acknowledges the potential risks and challenges associated with its adoption. It highlights the need for policymakers, investors, and development practitioners to carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of technology and to work towards a more equitable and sustainable development trajectory.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book explores the effects of rapid technological change on the development of the Global South. By tracing the discourse and practice of international development in the twentieth century, it provides necessary context to current changes in the global hierarchy. The book demonstrates that technology can bring about significant economic and societal change for middle and low-income nations, but also highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers the positive and negative impacts of technology. It calls for policymakers, investors, and development practitioners to work together to promote a more inclusive and sustainable development trajectory for the Global South.

Weight: 359g
ISBN-13: 9781108439527