Development in Latin America: political economies as a matter of culture

Desenvolvimento na América Latina: economias políticas uma questão de cultura

Abstract

The growing unrest regarding the social, political, economic and environmental state of affairs in Latin America suggests a deep challenge of the development model. Ideas about development matter because they seek to bring about social states by solving what are regarded as social ills. However, its definition is being increasingly disputed. This article makes sense of that plurality. Applying grid group cultural theory to this debate produces four irreducible ideal-typical worldviews and notions of development: market-led, state-led, multiple community-led, and a mirage.

Keywords:
Varieties of development; Cultural theory; Development models; Political economy; Latin America