Empowerment: The Politics of Alternative Development

By John Friedmann

Book Overview

Friedmann argues that poverty should be seen not merely in material terms, but as social, political and psychological powerlessness. He presents the case for an alternative form of development committed to empowering the poor in their own communities, and to mobilizing them for political participation on a wider scale. In contrast to centralized development, devised and implemented at the national and international levels, this alternative development aims to restore the initiative to those in need, on the grounds that unless people have an active role in directing thier own destinies long-term progress will not be achieved.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1557862990
• ISBN13: 9781557862990
• Release Date: January 1992
• Publisher: Blackwell Pub
• Length: 196 Pages
• Weight: 0.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.5" x 0.8" x 6.5"

Customer Reviews

excellent account of alternative city politics

This book provides an astute account of alternative approaches to city politics other than the traditional, liberal approach. Moreover, his account of political equality is particularly good. Must have for American urban politics students!