What is Underdevelopment?

A Critical Analysis of the Global South

In his groundbreaking book, "What is Underdevelopment?", Horacio González offers a comprehensive and critical analysis of the concept of underdevelopment, challenging conventional wisdom and providing a fresh perspective on the global South. González argues that underdevelopment is not simply a state of economic backwardness or a lack of resources, but rather a product of historical processes of domination and exploitation. He traces the roots of underdevelopment to the colonial era, when European powers established a global system of economic and political control that impoverished and marginalized the countries of the South.

Historical Roots of Underdevelopment

González begins by examining the historical origins of underdevelopment, arguing that it is a product of the expansion of capitalism and the rise of the modern world-system. He shows how the colonial powers used their military and economic might to extract resources from the South, while simultaneously preventing the development of local industries and economies. This process of exploitation and domination created a deep structural inequality between the North and the South, which persists to this day.

Dependency and Exploitation

González argues that underdevelopment is not simply a matter of economic backwardness, but also a product of the dependency of the South on the North. He shows how the economies of the South are often tied to the needs of the North, and how this dependency makes it difficult for them to achieve self-sustaining growth. González also highlights the role of multinational corporations in perpetuating underdevelopment, as they often extract profits from the South without reinvesting in local economies.

The Role of Culture and Ideology

González also explores the role of culture and ideology in perpetuating underdevelopment. He argues that the dominant ideologies of the North often portray the South as backward and inferior, which serves to justify its continued exploitation. González also examines the role of local elites in perpetuating underdevelopment, as they often benefit from the existing system of inequality and have little incentive to change it.

Alternatives to Underdevelopment

González concludes by arguing for the need for alternative paths to development that break with the current system of dependency and exploitation. He calls for a more just and equitable global order, based on principles of solidarity and cooperation. González also emphasizes the importance of local self-determination and the need for the countries of the South to take control of their own resources and economies.

A Must-Read for Understanding the Global South

"What is Underdevelopment?" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the global South and the challenges it faces. González's critical analysis of underdevelopment provides a fresh perspective on this complex issue, and his call for alternative paths to development is both timely and inspiring. This book is essential reading for scholars, policymakers, and activists alike.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive and critical analysis of underdevelopment
• Traces the roots of underdevelopment to the colonial era
• Examines the role of dependency, exploitation, and culture in perpetuating underdevelopment
• Calls for alternative paths to development based on solidarity and cooperation
• Essential reading for understanding the global South