Human Development: Lessons from the Cuban Revolution

by Henry Veltmeyer

Capitalism is a system in crisis. In the context of an urgent need for an alternative system, Cuba provides valuable lessons. The Cuban Revolution’s unique features have allowed it to survive both the conditions that brought about the collapse of the Soviet model of socialism and the renewed assault of US imperialism. The Revolution also serves as an inspiration for developing countries seeking to escape the clutches of global capitalism. Henry Veltmeyer examines the Cuban Revolution from the perspective of socialist human development, critiquing of the notion of human development used by the United Nations Development Programme to rescue capitalism from its fundamental contradictions and give a human face to an exploitative and destructive development process. Veltmeyer’s analysis shows the necessity to jettison a process designed to benefit the rich and powerful at an enormous social and environmental cost, one disproportionately borne by the working classes and the impoverished masses of the developing world.

128 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2014

Reviews

[Jacob Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A polished and concise exposition, celebration, and critique of the Cuban revolutionary process and it's development. This slim book cuts through the various debates to highlight the principle of socialist humanism which underlies the Cuban governments policies. I thought the book did sacrifice some of the historical context behind the state's decisions in favour of an examination of the policies and effects themselves- which makes a supplementary knowledge necessary to fully appreciate this book.

Overall, a worthwhile read for those interested in the subject or seeking a detailed articulation of alternative forms of development.