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Anthropology and impact evaluation: a critical commentary

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  • Elizabeth Harrison

Abstract

Quantitative and quasi-experimental methods have become popular in the evaluation of development impact. In response, several commentators have argued for more effective use of 'mixed methods'. This paper engages with, and builds upon, this current criticism of more quantitatively based impact evaluation from the disciplinary perspective of anthropology. Focusing on one specific evaluation, of an irrigation project in Malawi, it asks what was missed and what was misunderstood in the quantitative focus that was adopted. The paper then reflects on the wider question that is raised of how particular methods and perspectives can take centre stage and produce apparent 'truths' even in the face of evidence pointing in opposite directions. The overall argument is that this is a matter of the politics of knowledge production and of how particular disciplinary perspectives may come to dominate.

Suggested Citation

  • Elizabeth Harrison, 2015. "Anthropology and impact evaluation: a critical commentary," Journal of Development Effectiveness, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 7(2), pages 146-159, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:jdevef:v:7:y:2015:i:2:p:146-159
    DOI: 10.1080/19439342.2015.1015436
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    1. World Bank, 2009. "Awakening Africa's Sleeping Giant : Prospects for Commercial Agriculture in the Guinea Savannah Zone and Beyond [Le réveil du géant assoupi : Perspectives de l’agriculture commerciale dans les sava," World Bank Publications - Books, The World Bank Group, number 2640, December.
    2. Hill,Polly, 1986. "Development Economics on Trial," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521310963.
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    Cited by:

    1. Cornwall, Andrea & Aghajanian, Alia, 2017. "How to Find out What’s Really Going On: Understanding Impact through Participatory Process Evaluation," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 99(C), pages 173-185.

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