The Anthropology of Development

3 units

This course begins with the major development theories from the end of WWII to the present. A critical review of these theories reveals that the relationship between the rhetoric and practice of development is tenuous at best. Development practice is too often driven by relationships, attitudes, and motives that are seldom addressed in the discourse of international development. A second major theme will be the role of anthropologists in the development project, and anthropological critiques of development. Special emphasis will be placed upon contemporary approaches, especially ideas of participation and empowerment and the institution of NGOs (Non-Government Organizations). Prerequisite: L48-160BQ or permission of instructor.