Document Type : Research Paper
Author
Abstract
This article has presented two contending theoretical perspectives on development, the structuralist and the nee-liberal approach. At different times each approach has exercised a dominant influence over development thinking. Central to the conflict between the two approaches is the role which the state should play in economic development. For structuralists an active state is essential for over-coming the problems of economic backwardness. Neo-libcrals put their faith in the market and consider it as the most important factor in the efficient allocation of the resources. The writer, in this article, first explains the changes in the development thinking and then while examining each of the above perspectives, discusses the main clements of their theories and policies. The use of the latest statistical data, till the end of ! 98Us, has also added to the credibility of the article.
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