Title: Underdevelopment is a state of mind
First published: 2000
Description: "Lawrence E. Harrison argues that the principal explanation for regional disparities in economic growth can be found not in the exploitation of poor countries by imperialist powers, nor by a lack of resources, inhospitable geography, or a world economic system that is stacked against poorer nations. Rather, development must be viewed relative to traditional Hispanic culture.

Thus, Costa Rica, settled by pioneering farmers, has been more successful economically than Nicaragua, settled by conquistadors in search of gold and slaves, despite having fewer natural resources. Likewise, both Argentina and Australia are resource-rich, remote, and underpopulated countries. Political instability and a failure to maintain durable and progressive institutions have paralyzed Argentina's growth.

Alternatively, Australia thrives under a long tradition of democratic capitalism, despite its start as a prisoners' colony."--BOOK JACKET.
Subjects: Culture, Economic conditions, Economic development, Psychological aspects, Psychological aspects of Economic development, Social aspects, Social aspects of Economic development, Latin america, social conditions
Places: Latin America
Time periods: 1945-