Theories and Practices of Development

by Katie Willis

Throughout the twentieth century, governments sought to achieve 'development' not only in their own countries, but also in other regions of the world; particularly in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. This focus on 'development' as a goal has continued into the twenty-first century, for example through the United Nations Millennium Development Targets. While development is often viewed as something very positive, it is also very important to consider the possible detrimental effects it may have on the natural environment, different social groups and on the cohesion and stability of societies.

In this important book, Katie Willis investigates and places in a historical context, the development theories behind contemporary debates such as globalization and transnationalism. The main definitions of 'development' and 'development theory' are outlined with a description and explanation of how approaches have changed over time. The differing explanations of inequalities in development, both spatially and socially, and the reasoning behind different development policies are also considered. By drawing on pre-twentieth century European development theories and examining current policies in Europe and the USA, the book not only stresses commonalities in development theorizing over time and space, but also the importance of context in theory construction.

This topical book provides an ideal introduction to development theories for students in geography, development studies, area studies, anthropology and sociology. It contains student-friendly features, including boxed case studies with examples, definitions, summary sections, suggestions for further reading, discussion questions and website information.

Genres: Poverty, Politics, Economics

256 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Samiha Kamal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most popular academic books. Thanks to Katie Willis for this book. This helped much in shaping my critical thoughts like many other students.

N.B: reading this book again and again for capturing the overall idea and transitions of development. The author wrote the texts in such a way that it doesn’t feel like you are reading an academic book. A must read for all students, especially those who are studying social science!

[Jake · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good, basic, overview of development perspectives up until 2010. It does what it says on the tin.

[Mics · Rating 5 out of 5]

The latest edition ties in recent events like Covid and on-going issues on social justice and climate change very well. Overall a great overview of the discussions happening within the development field.

[Lyv Tremper · Rating 5 out of 5]

had to read for class but a good nonfiction read if you’re interested in international development!

[Hung · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about theories and aspects of development. Quite comprehensive, basic, and neutral narrative about development. Boxes of examples and stories are intriguing.

Some things good for myself:
- Viviendas del Hogar de Cristo Project, Ecuador: building bamboo house for low income families with partial financial support from the project and capital share from families (quite like 'Nha Chong Lu').
- Barefoot College, India: teaching center for the poor. The exception is "the rato of the lowest to the highest wage is no more than 1:2" (such the radical equality within organization).
- http://happyplanetindex.org/
- https://answers.practicalaction.org/

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very dense but interesting book. I personally prefered the enviromental, social and cultural chapters and wish it would have ended on one of those. Wouldn't recommend this book to just read, for a study it is a great overview of development.

[Jo Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Way more readable than the title would have you believe. A great resource.

[Mina Westli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very easily read introduction to development issues and studies.

[Mills College Library]

338.9001 W7349 2011

[Juma Mashauri]

Theories and practices of development

[Fionaanderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good clear concise and workmanlike review of development issues