How not to victimize the poor

Synopsis

The article argues that well-intentioned global development policies frequently fail because they misinterpret the realities, agency, and existing informal structures of impoverished communities. Instead of treating the poor as passive victims who need to be entirely reshaped, the author advocates for a "natural alliance" between capitalism and the poor—one centered on removing daily institutional barriers rather than imposing paternalistic reform.

Introduction by schweizer monat

Well-intentioned development policies often fail because they misunderstand the agency, knowledge, and informal institutions of the poor. It’s time to reestablish the most natural alliance between capitalism and the poor.

Original article