Assignment Question
EC3400 The Developing World Essay Topic: Behind the Beautiful Forever’s We have discussed what development and underdevelopment are in class in light of Todaro’s view. We have also examined the development of orthodox and heterodox development theory. Using Behind the Beautiful Forever’s, explore how Todaro’s and your own conceptions of development/underdevelopment are validated and how the divide/debate between orthodox and heterodox theory is represented. Note that the answers are not found in the book, but rather your synthesis of the book with the ideas we have been discussing. Don’t forget to support your reasoning. Essays These assignments are an opportunity for students to reflect on and analyze particular readings or experiences as they relate to the course. They are to be four to five pages in length (12 point font with 1 inch margins) and must include references from the work to support student analysis and reflection. The key to success in completing this component of the course is to give serious thought to the topic, analyze critically, organize one’s thoughts well, and present them well in writing.
Assignment Answer
Abstract
This essay explores the concepts of development and underdevelopment in the context of Todaro’s view and the debate between orthodox and heterodox development theories, as reflected in the book “Behind the Beautiful Forevers” by Katherine Boo (Boo, 2012). The essay provides a critical analysis of how Todaro’s and the author’s conceptions of development/underdevelopment are validated through the lens of this compelling narrative. It also delves into the representation of the divide and debate between orthodox and heterodox theories, drawing on evidence from the book. Throughout the discussion, in-text citations and references from the work are included to support the analysis.
Introduction
The concept of development and underdevelopment has been a central theme in the field of economics, and it has been viewed through various theoretical lenses. Paul Todaro’s perspective on development, as discussed in our course, provides a framework for understanding the complexities of economic growth and societal progress (Todaro & Smith, 2014). In parallel, “Behind the Beautiful Forevers” by Katherine Boo offers a captivating narrative set in the slums of Mumbai, India, which serves as a microcosm of the broader issues related to development and underdevelopment. This essay aims to synthesize the insights from Todaro’s view with the narrative of the book and analyze how these concepts are validated. Furthermore, it will explore how the divide and debate between orthodox and heterodox development theories are represented in the context of the book.
Development and Underdevelopment in “Behind the Beautiful Forevers
Katherine Boo’s meticulously researched work takes readers on a journey through the lives of the residents of Annawadi, a slum situated in the shadows of Mumbai’s booming economy. The stark contrast between the affluence of Mumbai’s urban elite and the abject poverty of Annawadi’s inhabitants exemplifies the glaring disparities often associated with underdevelopment. Todaro’s view of development emphasizes economic growth as a key driver of progress, and Annawadi presents a stark juxtaposition between the aspirations of its residents and the barriers to economic mobility they face.
In the narrative, we witness the struggles of individuals like Abdul, who, despite his resourcefulness and determination, finds himself caught in a cycle of poverty due to systemic barriers. Todaro’s perspective on underdevelopment, which highlights the role of structural factors and the need for policy interventions, is validated through Abdul’s story. The lack of access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in Annawadi underscores the structural constraints that hinder development.
Moreover, Boo’s portrayal of the corrupt and dysfunctional institutions in Mumbai mirrors the critiques often leveled against orthodox development theories. The book portrays a city where political and economic elites benefit from the status quo, leaving the marginalized communities trapped in a cycle of poverty. This resonates with heterodox development theories that emphasize the role of power dynamics, inequality, and social justice in shaping development outcomes.
Representation of the Orthodox and Heterodox Debate
The divide between orthodox and heterodox development theories is subtly represented in “Behind the Beautiful Forevers.” While Todaro’s perspective aligns with orthodox views that prioritize economic growth, the book sheds light on the limitations of such an approach. The residents of Annawadi are not merely statistics but individuals with complex stories and aspirations. The book challenges the reductionist view that economic growth alone can solve the issues of underdevelopment.
On the other hand, heterodox theories, which emphasize the importance of social and political factors, find validation in the book’s depiction of corruption, discrimination, and the exploitation of the poor. Boo’s narrative underscores that development cannot be divorced from the broader societal context, where power imbalances and systemic injustices play a significant role.
Conclusion
“Behind the Beautiful Forevers” offers a compelling lens through which to examine the concepts of development and underdevelopment in light of Todaro’s view and the debate between orthodox and heterodox development theories. The book validates Todaro’s emphasis on structural factors while also highlighting the limitations of a purely economic-centric approach. Furthermore, it subtly represents the divide between orthodox and heterodox theories by depicting the complexities of development in the slums of Mumbai. In conclusion, this synthesis demonstrates how the book enriches our understanding of development and underdevelopment, emphasizing the need for a holistic and context-specific approach to addressing the challenges of poverty and inequality in the developing world.
References
Boo, K. (2012). Behind the Beautiful Forevers: Life, Death, and Hope in a Mumbai Undercity. Random House.
Todaro, M. P., & Smith, S. C. (2014). Economic Development. Pearson.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main focus of Todaro’s view on development and underdevelopment?
Todaro’s view primarily emphasizes the role of economic growth, structural factors, and policy interventions in understanding development and underdevelopment.
How does “Behind the Beautiful Forevers” illustrate the challenges of underdevelopment?
The book vividly portrays the struggles of residents in Mumbai’s slums, highlighting issues such as poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, and systemic barriers to economic mobility.
What are orthodox and heterodox development theories, and how are they represented in the book?
Orthodox development theories prioritize economic growth, while heterodox theories emphasize social and political factors. The book subtly represents the divide between these theories through its narrative.
How does corruption play a role in underdevelopment as depicted in the book?
“Behind the Beautiful Forevers” exposes the impact of corruption in Mumbai, where political and economic elites benefit while the poor face exploitation and limited opportunities.
Why is a holistic approach important in addressing development challenges in the developing world?
A holistic approach takes into account not only economic factors but also social, political, and structural aspects. It recognizes that development is complex and cannot be solely achieved through economic growth.
