Dying For Growth: Global Inequality and the Health of the Poor

by Jim Yong Kim (Editor), John Gershman (Editor), Joyce Millen (Editor)

This collection of fourteen case studies from all over the world examines the root causes and effects of a global economic system that consigns a fifth of the world's population to abject poverty and offers more equitable alternatives. Simultaneous.

Genres: Economics, Nonfiction, Health, International Development

400 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2000

Reviews

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book I've read on global economic inequality, or 'Globalization'. The problem I usually end up having with so many books in that realm is that they function either as an overly optimistic apology with hollow promises for the future, or else they're ranting indictments, righteously condemning everything and explaining very little. This book is neither of those, and instead it explains in very great detail the current structure of the global economy, the history of it's development, and presents a vast array of case studies by different economists and workers on the ground in the areas in question to back up the general conclusions introduced in the opening essays. Not light reading, but a vital and important book.

[Sarah Jensen]

Book Review: Dying for Growth: Global Inequality and the Health of the Poor edited by Jim Yong Kim, John Gershman, and Joyce Millen

Introduction

Dying for Growth: Global Inequality and the Health of the Poor is a compelling anthology edited by notable figures Jim Yong Kim, John Gershman, and Joyce Millen. Published in 2000, this collection features fourteen case studies from diverse geographical contexts, examining how global economic policies and systemic inequalities impact the health and well-being of impoverished populations. The book effectively argues that the persistent inequities in wealth distribution and access to healthcare have dire consequences for the health outcomes of marginalized communities worldwide.

Summary of Content

The editors compile a series of case studies that illustrate the multifaceted relationships between global economic systems and health disparities. Each chapter presents empirical data and narratives that capture the lived experiences of people affected by poverty and inequality. The authors delve into various aspects, including the impact of international trade policies, structural adjustment programs, and global health initiatives, all of which contribute to the ongoing cycle of poverty and ill health.

Central themes emerge throughout the book, emphasizing how economic growth does not equate to improved health outcomes for all populations. It highlights the importance of a holistic understanding of health, recognizing the social determinants and contextual factors that influence individual and community well-being. The editors call for a reevaluation of current economic models to prioritize health equity and the rights of the poor.

Themes and Analysis

Several critical themes underpin the narrative of Dying for Growth:

Global Inequality: The book provides a thorough analysis of how economic disparities lead to significant differences in health outcomes across different regions. The case studies reveal that the poorest populations often suffer the most from preventable diseases, exacerbated by lack of access to healthcare resources.

Health as a Human Right: The editors advocate for recognizing health as a fundamental human right, arguing that global policies must be reevaluated to support the health needs of disadvantaged groups.

Social Determinants of Health: The contributors emphasize the role of social, economic, and environmental factors in shaping health outcomes. This approach encourages a more nuanced understanding of health that goes beyond traditional biomedical models.

Call for Policy Change: The anthology serves as both a critique of existing policies and a call to action for policymakers. The editors argue for the need to incorporate equity-focused strategies in health and economic policies to improve health outcomes for the poorest communities.

Style and Writing

The writing in Dying for Growth is scholarly yet accessible, making complex ideas understandable to a broad audience. The case studies are rich with empirical data, and the editors do an excellent job of synthesizing diverse viewpoints while maintaining the integrity and uniqueness of each contributor’s research. The inclusion of personal narratives enhances the emotional resonance of the statistical findings, grounding abstract concepts in real-world experiences.

Conclusion

Dying for Growth: Global Inequality and the Health of the Poor is a vital contribution to the discussions surrounding global health and economic inequality. By bringing together various perspectives and case studies, the editors provide a comprehensive examination of the interconnectedness of health and economic policies. This book is essential reading for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the systemic issues that contribute to health disparities. Ultimately, it calls for a reevaluation of how society defines and addresses health, urging a commitment to equity and the welfare of the most vulnerable populations worldwide.

[Voyt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Neoliberal polices and the poor - ugly human nature at work:

If the poor were to benefit from neoliberal policies, Dying for Growth argues, Mexico should provide an exemplary case. With constant encouragement from the United States, Mexico has aggressively implemented neoliberal policies for more than 20 years. The maquiladora sector of the economy, industrial plants owned by transnational corporations (TNCs) manufacturing products to export primarily to the United States, has grown quickly since the implementation of NAFTA, but this has been at the expense of other sectors of the economy. Competition with TNCs has undermined 30 000 small businesses and millions of subsistence farmers. Millions of permanently displaced peasants have made their way to urban shantytowns or tried to immigrate to the United States.
Read what does it mean to privatize health care system and industry in many countries around the world.
Learn how rich get richer and poor get poorer virtually everywhere, including USA and other developed nations.
How realy "free" is trade, market and for whom ?
Who controls "New World Order" - politicians elected by citizens or corporations ?
If you are not sure what is the answer - get this very interesting and disturbing research/analysis coming from Institute for Health and Social Justice.

[Precious Osei]

Dying for Growth: Global Inequality and the Health of the Poor, edited by Jim Yong Kim, John Gershman, and Joyce Millen, is a profound exploration of the devastating impact of global economic policies on the health and well-being of the world's poorest populations. This collection of fourteen case studies from various regions provides a stark look at how neoliberal policies have exacerbated poverty and inequality, leading to dire health outcomes.
The book also offers hope by presenting alternative approaches to economic development that prioritize equity and health. It calls for debt cancellation, economic transformation, and institutional measures to redistribute resources more fairly. It might cause you some tears as well, but nothing you cannot handle.
Overall, Dying for Growth is a powerful indictment of current global economic practices and a call to action for policymakers, activists, and scholars. Its blend of rigorous analysis and heartfelt storytelling makes it an essential read for anyone committed to understanding and addressing global inequality.

[Patricia Ojea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. Contains pictures that add substance to the text.