This book was inspired by the crisis of development and the escalation of social disorder and violence that emerged in many Third World nations during the 1980s. From its beginnings, the promotion of development in the Third World has had political as well as social and economic aims. This volume challenges certain widely held views about economic and political development. Alcade provides evidence that programs aimed at the increase of incomes and gross national product have sometimes contributed not to development but to corruption and social decay. He analyzes the relationship between political and economic development and the interconnection between development and social conflict. Few social and economic thinkers have as profound an understanding of politics as Alcade. He writes as historian, political scientist, economist, and social philosopher. Co-published with the Miller Center of Public Affairs.