This article reflects on the complex relationship of anthropology as a social science with development regarded as interventions towards the transformation (improvement) of the disadvantaged populations' livelihoods. We describe and analyze several issues that we consider vital in order to explain the difficult relationship between anthropology and development. In addition, we discuss the fundamental importance of the political and cultural face of development processes as we regard them as spaces where power relations are constantly being shaped and reshaped resulting in unexpected turns and changes in direction in relation to the original development projects. Lastly, from an anthropological perspective we advocate to take up a vigilant analysis of the political and cultural aspects of development in order to produce controlled interventions that are favorable for the beneficiaries.
Keywords:
Anthropology, Applied Anthropology, Development, Politics, Social interventions
Author Biographies
Alejandro Isla, CONICET y FLACSO
Dr. en Antropología
Investigador CONICET y FLACSO
Paula Colmegna, CONICET
Master en Antropología del Desarrollo - Sussex University, Reino Unido
Dra. (c) en Antropología - Universidad de Buenos Aires y FLACSO Argentina
Isla, A., & Colmegna, P. (2007). The importance of culture and politics in the development process. MAD, (16), 93–107. Retrieved from https://revistateoriadelarte.uchile.cl/index.php/RMAD/article/view/13949
