Ethnic Entrepreneurs: Identity and Development Politics in Latin America

Indigenous groups are not often recognized as driving forces in the push for economic development. However, in development efforts across Latin America, governments and corporations have begun to see ethnic cultural difference as an advantage. Ethnic Entrepreneurs explores how diverse groups historically seen as obstacles to development have become valuable to state and regional development initiatives. From collaboration between a Maya organization and Walmart to a UN-sponsored program that recruits diasporic Latinos, states and corporations are pursuing strategies that complement regional neoliberal shifts. This book examines how ethnic difference is produced through development policy, breaking down the micropolitics of identity and development. It uncovers surprising convergences between ethnic community businesses and corporate social responsibility practices and illuminates how formulations of ethnic difference influence not only changing cultural identifications, but also the political and moral projects that shape Latin America.

Author: Monica Dehart
Publisher: Stanford University Press
Published: 02/02/2010
Pages: 208
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.70lbs
Size: 8.90h x 5.90w x 0.70d
ISBN: 9780804769341

Review Citation(s):
Choice 12/01/2010
Reference and Research Bk News 05/01/2010 pg. 76

About the Author
Monica DeHart is Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of Puget Sound.