Development in Multiple Dimensions: Social Power and Regional Policy in India

Alexander Lee's book "Development in Multiple Dimensions" explores the origins of success and failure in the public services of developing countries, comparing states within India. He shows that social inequalities create groups of competing elites with divergent policy interests, leading to regional variation in India. The impact of these differences on distributional strategies is more significant than ideology, geography, or institutions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2019
Publisher: The University of Michigan Press

In his book "Development in Multiple Dimensions," Alexander Lee delves into the origins of success and failure in the public services of developing countries. Focusing on India, the study compares states within the country to examine how elites control or are excluded from policy decisions, and how the interests of these elites shape public policy. Lee reveals that social inequalities are multifaceted, leading to the formation of competing elites with divergent policy interests. The power of these elites varies, resulting in states prioritizing different areas such as infrastructure, social services, or both.

The author develops his ideas through quantitative comparisons and case studies, focusing on four northern Indian states: Gujarat, West Bengal, Bihar, and Himachal Pradesh. Each of these states represents a distinct type of political economy and is home to different powerful caste groups. The evidence gathered suggests that regional variation in India is primarily driven by social differences rather than differences in ideology, geography, or institutions.

Lee's analysis highlights the complex interplay between elites, policy decisions, and social inequalities in shaping the development of public services in India. His book provides valuable insights into the factors that contribute to success and failure in the delivery of public goods and services, and offers valuable lessons for policymakers and practitioners working in the field of development.

Weight: 592g
Dimension: 161 x 235 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780472131259