Post-development theory challenges traditional economic growth models, advocating for culturally relevant and sustainable societal well-being. Key figures like Arturo Escobar and Gustavo Esteva critique the Eurocentric bias in development, promoting diverse, grassroots approaches. Case studies include Bhutan's Gross National Happiness and Latin America's Buen Vivir, exemplifying alternative metrics that prioritize happiness, social justice, and ecological balance.
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Post-development theory critiques the Western-centric bias in development practices
Post-development theory questions the universal applicability of development indicators designed by Western institutions
Post-development theory advocates for the recognition of diverse paths to societal well-being that are culturally relevant and sustainable
The post-development framework was shaped by thinkers such as Arturo Escobar and Gustavo Esteva
Post-development theory calls for a reimagining of development that respects cultural, social, and ecological contexts
Bhutan's Gross National Happiness index and the Buen Vivir philosophy in Latin America are practical manifestations of post-development thinking
Post-development theory values grassroots, or 'bottom-up', development initiatives that engage local communities in planning and implementation
Grassroots development prioritizes social equity, environmental sustainability, and the utilization of indigenous knowledge and resources
Post-development theory faces critiques regarding scalability and the potential for cultural relativism, but also offers insights for community-led development
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Advocates of post-development theory call for the acknowledgment of various ______ to societal well-being that respect cultural relevance and ______.
paths
sustainability
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Post-development framework emergence era
Late 20th century
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Critique focus of post-development scholars
Eurocentric bias and equating economic growth with progress
