INGS1001 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: International Development, Eurocentrism
23 May 2018
School
Department
Course
Professor
Lecture Post 2
Anastassia Simonian
22/03/2017
Word Count: 217
"Why does the author of this book choose a non-Eurocentric narrative?"
In his book,1 Robert B. Marks' intention is to provide a more egalitarian platform
in Historical analysis by deconstructing the traditionally accepted master
narrative. That is, the Eurocentric belief that Western dominance is attributed to
an inherent superiority in culture, society and even work ethic. This story-line
has become so entrenched in ways of thinking that underpin historical enquiry
that it cannot be considered a mere 'bias,' but rather an accepted paradigm in
scholarship and resultantly, Western superiority is treated as established fact.
This is of great concern to historians as it creates assumptions across all
historical narratives and effectively denies those parts of the world overlooked a
true agency. Ultimately, this completely disregards the historical contingencies
and conjunctures that were, and remain, vital to global development. Therefore,
the importance of this decision to choose a non-Eurocentric narrative, as Marks
stresses, is one that will not only challenge assumptions both general and
scholarly but a decision that will provide three accomplishments. Firstly, in
providing an objective analysis of the paradigm that is Western dominance.
Secondly, to encourage introspection in readers that critically examines their
own assumptions. Thirdly, and more generally, to allow us as the responders
question what we know of contemporary society and its history.
1 Juergensmeyer, Mark. Thinking Globally. Berkeley: University of California
Press, 2013. Print.
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