History of Development: From Western Origins to Global Faith

Gilbert Rist's text explores the idea of development throughout history, tracing its origins in the Western view of history to the rise of US hegemony and the supposed triumph of third-worldism. He argues that development has been a collective delusion that has resulted in widening market relations, and proposes postdevelopment models that consider the ecological dimensions of development.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In this groundbreaking work, Gilbert Rist offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the concept of development throughout history. He traces its origins in the Western perspective, traversing the early stages of the world system, the ascent of US hegemony, and the perceived triumph of third-worldism. Rist then examines emerging concerns about the environment and globalization, assessing potential postdevelopment models and delving into the ecological dimensions of development. Throughout, he compellingly argues that development has been nothing more than a collective illusion, leading to the expansion of market relations, regardless of the intentions of its advocates. This seminal text, penned by one of the foremost figures in postdevelopment theory, remains a classic in the field.

Gilbert Rist's landmark text provides a comprehensive and compelling overview of the concept of development throughout history. He traces its origins in the Western view of history, through the early stages of the world system, the rise of US hegemony, and the supposed triumph of third-worldism, through to new concerns about the environment and globalization.

Assessing possible postdevelopment models and considering the ecological dimensions of development, Rist contemplates the ways forward. Throughout, he argues persuasively that development has been no more than a collective delusion, which in reality has resulted only in widening market relations, whatever the intentions of its advocates.

A classic development text written by one of the leaders of postdevelopment theory, this work remains a valuable resource for scholars and policymakers seeking to understand the complexities of development and its impact on societies around the world.

Weight: 464g
Dimension: 142 x 222 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786997555
Edition number: 5 ed