The reception of resistance to development: A perspective

Abstract

People sometimes react with little enthusiasm to development projects designed for them — or even resist such projects. One of the reasons for this is that development projects and modernization impose Western values and world‐views on other cultures. The search for an authentic identity based on African values is described by prominent modern African writers all over the continent This search includes, to a greater or lesser extent, the rejection of Western values and lifestyles. In this article the views of African writers on the African concept of a cosmic order and the corresponding concept of development is compared with the traditional Western concepts. Theological reflection from a Christian point of view is also included. Various ‘gaps’ that exist are discussed, as well as possibilities for reconciling the opposing values and world‐views.

Notes

Professor in Practical Theology, University of the North.