Preferential Option: A Christian and Neoliberal Strategy for Latin America's Poor

by Amy L. Sherman

This is an unusually clear and articulate defense of a development model Latin America based on the free market. It convincingly shows that anyone taking seriously the so-called option for the poor must go in this direction. The author's firm religious commitment adds to the value of the book. -- Peter L. Berger, Boston University After the collapse of the socialist model . . . the poor of the world look expectantly for a sounder path to a better future. Amy Sherman is one of the bright young thinkers of the new generation who are propounding a new strategy, both profoundly Christian and empirically based on models that have actually worked quite rapidly to improve the condition of the poor. Her vision is remarkably ecumenical and takes into account very different international settings. -- Michael Novak, American Enterprise Institute At a time when political and economic foundations are shaking throughout much of the world, the clear argument of this book needs to be considered very carefully. . . . In constructing her own proposals for Christian development efforts in Latin America, Amy Sherman presents a remarkably comprehensive argument that is at once both cautious and optimistic, both realistic and forward looking. -- James W. Skillen, Association for Public Justice A stimulating study that harness the best insights of development thinking and delineates the case for a market-friendly strategy for holistic development in Latin America. This book puts forth a clarion call for all Christians to act. --Ted Yamamori, Food for the Hungry International

240 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1992

About the author

Dr. Amy L. Sherman is a Senior Fellow at the Sagamore Institute for Policy Research, where she directs the Center on Faith in Communities. She likes to describe the work of the Center as that of being “a minister to ministries.” She provides training and consulting to churches and nonprofits seeking to transform their communities for the common good.

Dr. Sherman is the author of six books and some 75+ published articles in such diverse periodicals as Christianity Today, First Things, The Public Interest, Policy Review, Prism, The Christian Century, and Books & Culture.

She serves as the Editorial Director for FASTEN, a capacity building project for faith-based organizations that offers a robust website of practical resources for ministry practitioners.

Sherman is the founder and former Executive Director of Charlottesville Abundant Life Ministries, an Evangelical nonprofit assisting low-income, inner-city families. She has served on the Advisory Board of the Christian Community Development Association for several years.

Reviews

[Ryan Greer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting perspective on both the history of development and the future of development in Latin America. Tough read for anyone who's not really into economics, but Sherman knows what she's talking about. I don't think I would agree with all of her points, but she offers up some pretty valid critiques of pro-statist development and the failed development plans of the 80's... A solid 3 stars...