Development, Neoliberalism, and Islamism in South Asia: The Case of Bangladesh

This book examines how class relations shape development in Bangladesh, highlighting the alliance between the new elite and the Western aid/development industry. It argues that dual hegemony erodes the middle-class and reinforces class and caste differences, impacting aid delivery mechanisms and recipients' choices.

Format: Hardback
Length: 147 pages
Publication date: 22 July 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive monograph delves into the intricate dynamics of development in Bangladesh, exploring the complex interplay between class relations and their implications for the country's politics of development and economic globalization. Through a thorough examination of these relations, the author aims to understand how they shape aid delivery mechanisms and influence the choices of aid recipients in participating in development programs.

One of the central findings of this study is the emergence of dual hegemony as a governing framework in Bangladesh. The author defines dual hegemony as an alliance between the new Bangladeshi political and economic elite and the Western international aid/development industry. This alliance operates in a manner that erodes the Bangladeshi middle class, reinforces class and caste differences, and further privatizes the public sector, leading to the fragmentation of civil society.

The book holds significant relevance for scholars engaged in the study of political Islam, international politics, and security studies, particularly in the areas of terrorism and the politics of South Asia. By examining the intersection of class, power, and development in Bangladesh, the monograph sheds light on the broader regional and global dynamics that shape political and social outcomes.

The author's analysis is grounded in extensive research and data collection, drawing from a range of sources, including primary interviews, secondary literature, and official documents. The book is well-organized, with each chapter providing a clear and concise overview of the relevant topics, while also offering insightful perspectives and conclusions.

In conclusion, this monograph is a valuable contribution to the field of development studies, offering a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics of development in Bangladesh. By examining the role of class relations in shaping aid delivery mechanisms and recipient choices, the author provides valuable insights into the broader political and social dynamics that shape the country's development trajectory. The book is of interest to scholars, researchers, and policymakers alike, and will undoubtedly contribute to ongoing discussions and debates about development, inequality, and social change in the region and beyond.

Weight: 355g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031031083
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022