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Elite development theory: a labour-centred critique
Much development theory is based upon elite-led conceptions of social change. Elite development theory (EDT) conceptualises ‘the poor’ as human inputs into or, at best, junior partners within elite-led development processes. This elitism contributes to the continual (re)framing of the poor as passive beneficiaries of elite policy, and legitimates economic exploitation of the poor. These claims are illustrated by discussing a number of EDT traditions – the Washington/Post-Washington Consensus, statist political economy, modernisation Marxism and varieties of pro-poor growth. As an alternative to EDT the article argues for a conception and practice of ‘labour-centred development’.
History
Publication status
- Published
Journal
Third World QuarterlyISSN
0143-6597Publisher
Third World QuarterlyExternal DOI
Issue
37Volume
5Page range
781-799Department affiliated with
- International Relations Publications
Full text available
- No
Peer reviewed?
- Yes