Whose reality counts? : putting the first last
Robert Chambers (Author)
In this sequel to "Rural Development: Putting the last first" Robert Chambers argues that central issues in development have been overlooked, and that many past errors have flowed from domination by those with power. Development professionals now need new approaches and methods for interacting, learning and knowing. Through analyzing experience - of past mistakes and myths, and of the continuing methodological revolution of PRA (participatory rural appraisal) - the author points towards solutions. In many countries, urban and rural people alike have shown an astonishing ability to express and analyze their local, complex and diverse realities which are often at odds with the top-down realities imposed by professionals. The author argues that personal, professional and institutional change is essential if the realities of the poor are to receive greater recognition. Self-critical awareness and changes in concepts, values, methods and behaviour must be developed to explore the new high ground of participation and empowerment. "Whose Reality Counts?" presents a radical challenge to all concerned with development, whether practitioners, researchers or policy-makers, in all organizations and disciplines, and at all levels from fieldworkers to the heads of agencies. With its thrust of putting the first last it presents a new, exciting and above all practical agenda for future development which cannot be ignored
xx, 297 pages : illustrations ; 23 cm
9781853393860, 185339386X
36589868
List of Figures
List of Tables
Abbreviations and Addresses
Glossary of Meanings
Preface
Acknowledgements
1. The Challenge to Change
2. Normal Error
3. Professional Realities
4. The Transfer of Reality
5. All Power Deceives
6. Learning to Learn
7. What Works and Why
8. Poor People's Realities: Local, Complex, Diverse, Dynamic and Unpredictable
9. The New High Ground
10. Putting the First Last
Postscript: Past and Future
PRA Contacts and Sources of Information
Notes
References
Index
Sequel to: Rural development : putting the last first