2.11 Development: discourse and project

Question 1

Explain why Esteva argues that Development is a term/discourse that contaminates social reality, in its failure as much as “success”.

Answer 1

Esteva argues that “development” is ideologically created and inextricably linked to western hegemony. the term is void of meaning but remains laden with connotations. perpetuation of white supremacy through discourse of othering

Question 2

Analyze Truman’s Point Four Speech for the logics that are present in national discourse today.

Answer 2

a “technical assistance program for developing countries”. had the effect of “creating” the concept of underdevelopment. promoted the discourse of othering and western hegemony.

Question 3

Economocentrism

Answer 3

To allow the market mechanism to
be sole director of the fate of
human beings and their natural
environment,… would result in the
demolition of society.

Question 4

Orientalism,

Answer 4

representation of the east as backwards, exotic - in opposition to the west. a political instrument of power rooted in discourse - justification of imperial projects

Question 5

Development as ideology

Answer 5

Development failed as a socioeconomic
endeavor, but the development
discourse still contaminates social
reality.

Question 6

Gross Happiness Index,

Answer 6

a tool that measures the collective happiness and well-being of a population. It’s based on 33 indicators such as living standards, psychological wellbeing, health & education.