Description
Book SynopsisThis book, now available in English for the first time, has become a classic since it was first published in 1982. Translated into five languages, it has had an extraordinary influence on grassroots development projects.
The author relates two of his own experiences in 'barefoot economics', interspersing these moving and insightful accounts with reflections on development projects and experts, pioneering criticism of of orthodox development economics, and a new vision of development in which the poor must learn to circumvent the national economic system.
Trade Review'A masterpiece. The three "theoretical interludes" are remarkable for their insight, originality and profundity.'
John Papworth,
The Fourth World'A clear break from the conventional approach to economics.'
West Africa
'A well written book that provides a challenging and welcome break from repetitive debates about the economics of development.'
Education with Production
'Max-Neef recognises fully that the problems facing us today are very profound.'
Edward Goldsmith,
Resurgence'This book will have many readers among economists and politicians, as well as among the increasing number of people concerned with development and project design.'
Chronicle'Written with passion, this book also inspires passion in the reader, above all because it views the problem of poverty from a new and more human angle.'
Development and Education Exchange PapersTable of Contents
- Foreword - Leopold Kohr
- Prelude
- Part I: The ECU-28 Project: Horizontal Communication for Peasants' Participation and Self-Reliance
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Theoretical Interlude (I)
- 3. Theoretical Interlude (II)
- 4. The Perception of Reality
- 5. In a World Apart
- 6. The Peasants Get Together
- 7. In a World of Our Own
- 8. Far Away and Long Ago
- Part II: The 'Tiradentes Project': Revitalization of Small Cities for Self-Reliance
- 9. Introduction
- 10. Theoretical Interlude (III)
- 11. Encounter with Reality
- 12. A Scheme for Action
- 13. The Action Starts
- 14. Navigation and Return
- Notes
