Economic and social development: theories, proposals, responsibilities

Abstract

Given that the subject of development is permanently in the news, in a world characterised by poverty and inequality, this editorial begins by summarising the main theories on development held today, and by defending a relatively “ecumenical” stand that takes the best from each of the three large families of theories in vogue: alternative, neo–liberal and neo–structuralist. From this basis, we propose a kind of Decalogue of fundamental principles on which, with whatever shades of meaning one likes, growing consensus is being reached by the actors (participants) in development processes. We then go on to recall, from an ethical stance, a series of responsibilities that the so–called rich “North” should accept as soon as possible if it really wants to advance in the fight against poverty. On this will depend, to a great degree, the reaching or not of the already famous Millennium Development Goals.