REFLECTIONS ON DEVELOPMENT - GRASS-ROOTS APPROACHES AND ALTERNATIVE POLITICS IN THE THIRD-WORLD

This article analyses a radical critique of the discourse of 'development' as a hegemonic form of representation of the Third World that has been advanced recently by a number of Third World scholars. Although originating in various geographical areas, the authors of this group nevertheless share certain assumptions and concerns. Prominent among these are the interest in local knowledge and culture as the basis for redefining representations; a critical stance with respect to established scientific knowledge; and the defence and promotion of localized, pluralistic grassroots movements. The call of these authors for the dismantling of 'development' is discussed in the context of broader questions posed by the emergence of 1980s' and 1990s' social movements generally.