Abstract
This paper will argue that the demonization of sub-Saharan African state proposed and enacted by neoliberal institutions during and since the era of structural adjustment has no historical foundations. In making this argument, the history of development thinking prior to and after World War II will be analyzed to show that the state was and continues to be instrumental in economic development. Finally, drawing on the contributions of heterodox development economists, prospects for re-integrating the sub-Saharan African state to bolster economic development will be assessed by drawing on the development experiences of East Asia’s high performing economies.
Highlights
Economic development as a bona fide field in economics was born after World War II (WWII)
One of the key tenets of structural adjustment was limiting the role of the state and enhancing the role of the market by touting the ability of the latter to resolve all problems regarding growth and development
As has been argued in this paper, the notion that the state has very limited roles to play in economic development is unsubstantiated by the historical evidence from all developed countries
Summary
Economic development as a bona fide field in economics was born after World War II (WWII). Heterodox development economists argue strongly that the role of the state in development goes beyond the scope defined by neoclassical economists They have challenged the literature on comparative advantage by drawing on the empirical evidence from East Asia (Wade, 1990; Amsden, 1989, 2001; Evans, 1995; Fine, 2006; Chang, 2003; Lin & Chang, 2009; van Donge et al, 2012). The analysis in this paper adds to continuing discussions but will provide a historical grounding for scholars and policymakers interested in the topic of the role of the state in the development of SSA. The last section concludes the paper and identifies lessons for development
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