Article Review on Forget developing poor countries, it's time to de-develop rich countries.

Summary

In 'Forget Developing Poor Countries, It's Time to Develop Rich Countries' by Jason Hickel, the article challenges the conventional narrative that growth is the solution and instead suggests that rich countries should reduce their development levels. Hickel argues for learning from societies with low consumption but high happiness and longevity, promoting a more sustainable and appropriate development model. The article calls for a new understanding of progress that doesn't rely on endless growth, encouraging rich nations to justify their existence and consider a more balanced approach to global development.

Takeaways

• 🌍 The article challenges the notion that growth is the only solution and suggests a reevaluation of development strategies.
• 📈 It critiques the idea of perpetuating growth as a means for poorer countries to catch up with richer ones, viewing it as outdated propaganda.
• 🔄 The author, Jason Hickel, proposes a shift in perspective to consider 'catching down' as a viable alternative to the traditional 'catching up' approach.
• 🏞️ The article highlights societies where people live long and happy lives despite lower levels of income and consumption, suggesting these as models for efficient living.
• 🌱 It emphasizes the need to learn from cultures that have achieved a good quality of life without excessive consumption or wealth.
• 🌱 The concept of 'appropriate development' is introduced, where countries are not seen as underdeveloped but as optimally developed for their context.
• 🌐 Hickel calls for rich countries to justify their levels of development and consumption, implying a need for global equity and sustainability.
• 🌿 The article aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to end poverty through sustainable means rather than endless growth.
• 💡 It encourages a higher level of consciousness and understanding, advocating for a world that values quality of life over material wealth.
• 🔄 The article suggests a middle ground where both rich and poor countries can develop in a balanced way, meeting at a point of sustainable and equitable living standards.

Q & A

What is the main argument presented in Jason Hickel's article?

The main argument is that growth is no longer a viable option and that instead of focusing on developing poor countries to catch up with rich ones, we should consider bringing rich countries down to more appropriate levels of development.

Who is Jason Hickel and what is his background?

Jason Hickel is an anthropologist with a strong economic perspective. He is known for his critiques of development and economic growth.

What is the significance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) mentioned in the article?

The SDGs are a set of goals established by the United Nations to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all. The article critiques the reliance on economic growth as a means to achieve these goals.

Who is Peter Edward, and what does he argue in the article?

Peter Edward is an economist mentioned in the article who argues against the idea of pushing poorer countries to catch up with richer ones. Instead, he suggests that rich countries should aim for a more appropriate level of development.

What does the article suggest we should learn from societies with low income and consumption?

The article suggests that we should learn from societies where people live long and happy lives despite relatively low income and consumption levels, as these represent efficient ways of living.

How does the article define 'appropriate development'?

The article defines 'appropriate development' as a state where countries are not overdeveloped but have reached a level of development that allows for long and happy lives with lower levels of income and consumption.

What is the author's stance on the concept of 'developing' poor countries?

The author argues against the traditional notion of developing poor countries to match the levels of rich ones, suggesting instead that rich countries should adjust their development to more sustainable levels.

What is the intended audience for this article?

The intended audience is adults who are concerned about the state of the world and are open to rethinking conventional economic development models.

What is the main takeaway from the article according to the reviewer?

The main takeaway is the importance of reevaluating our understanding of development and growth, and learning from societies that prioritize happiness and longevity over material wealth.

What is the reviewer's critique of the article's suggestion to stop developing poor countries?

The reviewer points out that the article's suggestion to stop developing poor countries might be misinterpreted; they believe that poor countries should still be allowed to develop while rich countries adjust their development strategies.

Why does the reviewer recommend the article to others?

The reviewer recommends the article because it challenges conventional economic wisdom and encourages readers to consider alternative models of development that prioritize well-being over material wealth.