Development in Latin America: Critical Discussions from the Periphery

This edited volume discusses the development theory advanced by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in the 1940s and its transformations through the second half of the twentieth century. The contributors argue that structuralism is still relevant for understanding the current problems of development if a careful and appropriate recovery and update of its main ideas and concepts is made in relation to the current context of globalization and internationalization of production and finance.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 240 pages
\n Publication date: 13 August 2018
\n Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG
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This edited volume delves into the evolution of the development theory advanced by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) during the 1940s and its subsequent transformations throughout the second half of the twentieth century. Within this period, the authors identify two distinct approaches: structuralism (1950-1980) and neo-structuralism (1980-onwards). The contributors explore the transition by examining economic theory and policy, the conceptualization of the State, and the spatial dimensions at regional and global scales. They argue that structuralism retains its relevance in understanding contemporary development challenges, provided that its core ideas and concepts are carefully recovered and updated in light of the current context of globalization and internationalization of production and finance.

The editors of this volume have assembled a collection of essays by renowned scholars and experts in the field of development studies. The chapters provide a comprehensive overview of the theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence that have shaped the evolution of development theory in Latin America and the Caribbean. The authors explore the historical roots economy, politics, and social structures that have influenced the region's development trajectory and analyze the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Structuralism, as the dominant approach during the first half of the twentieth century, emphasized the importance of economic factors. The authors argue that the State should play a central role in promoting economic growth and social welfare through policies such as industrialization, urbanization, and agricultural development. However, they also recognize the limitations of this approach, particularly in terms of its inability to account for the complex social and cultural factors that shape development outcomes.

Neo-structuralism, on the other hand, emerged in the 1980s as a response to the shortcomings of structuralism. The authors argue that economic factors are not sufficient to explain development outcomes and that social, cultural, and political factors also play a critical role. They advocate for a more nuanced understanding of the State and its role in promoting development, recognizing the importance of institutions, governance, and social capital in shaping development outcomes.

The contributors to this volume offer a rich and nuanced analysis of the transition from structuralism to neo-structuralism and its implications for development theory and practice in Latin America and the Caribbean. They explore the challenges and opportunities that arise from the changing global economic and political landscape, and propose strategies for promoting sustainable and inclusive development in the region.

One of the key themes that emerge from the chapters is the importance of regional integration and cooperation in promoting development. The authors argue that the region's economies face unique challenges and opportunities that require a coordinated and collaborative approach to address them. They highlight the role of regional institutions such as the ECLAC, the United Nations, and the World Bank in promoting economic integration and cooperation and suggest ways to strengthen their effectiveness.

Another theme that emerges from the chapters is the importance of human capital and social development in promoting sustainable development. The authors argue that investment in education, health, and social welfare is critical to promoting economic growth and reducing poverty. They highlight the role of government policies and programs in promoting human capital development and suggest ways to improve their effectiveness.

The chapters also address the challenges of globalization and internationalization in promoting development. The authors argue that the region's economies are increasingly interconnected with the global economy, but that this also presents challenges and opportunities. They highlight the need for the region to adapt to the changing global economic landscape and promote sustainable and inclusive development.

Finally, the chapters address the issue of sustainable development and the role of the State in promoting it. The authors argue that sustainable development requires a long-term perspective and a commitment to promoting social and environmental well-being alongside economic growth. They highlight the need for the State to prioritize sustainable development policies and programs and to engage with stakeholders to ensure that development outcomes are socially and environmentally sustainable.

In conclusion, this edited volume provides a valuable contribution to the field of development studies by exploring the evolution of development theory in Latin America and the Caribbean. The chapters offer a comprehensive analysis of the theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence that have shaped the region's development trajectory and propose strategies for promoting sustainable and inclusive development in the region. The book will be of interest to scholars, policymakers, and practitioners working in the field of development in Latin America and the Caribbean and beyond.

\n Weight: 584g\n
Dimension: 216 x 160 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9783319921822\n
Edition number: 1st ed. 2019\n