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Impossible Theorem and Possibilities of Development Studies

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  • Bhabani Shankar Nayak

Abstract

This article evaluates the ‘impossibility theorem’ of ‘development studies’. It is imperative to reject the ‘impossibility theorem’ based on essentialist perspectives and performative indicators of economic growth and development. It is necessary to revive the radical promise of ‘development studies’ as a discipline to address the issues and predicaments of people and their societies around the world. A simple rejection of the ‘impossibility theorem’ is not possible unless ‘development studies’ reasserts itself as a critical discipline to analyse, understand and guide social, economic and cultural transformations based on historical experiences. The article argues that ‘development studies’ have to be free from the influences of economics and its model-driven logic and revive its emancipatory language of transformation in our society.

Suggested Citation

  • Bhabani Shankar Nayak, 2020. "Impossible Theorem and Possibilities of Development Studies," Journal of Development Policy and Practice, , vol. 5(2), pages 133-148, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jodepp:v:5:y:2020:i:2:p:133-148
    DOI: 10.1177/2455133320952209
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    References listed on IDEAS

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