Using Knowledge from Social Science in Development Projects

摘要

Repeated failures have plagued many development programs that were sociologicallyill-informed or ill-conceived. More recently, however, a combination of factors is leading to increased use of knowledge derived from sociology and anthropology in development projects. Financially induced development aims to accelerate the pace of economic growth and social change. However, accelerating development through planned investment projects often runs the risk of creating social imbalances. Using social science knowledge and analytical methods in designing project strategies can minimize such risks. The institutionalization of development oriented, applied social science requires harmonizing the cognitive identity and the professional identity of those who practice in the area. This would entail, at least: formalizing the position of the social analyst within the organizational structure of technical and development agencies; substantially changing the university curriculum for training the future social scientists and social workers oriented towards development work; and exposing economists and technical specialists to social science knowledge.