ABSTRACT
The evidence presented in this book suggests clearly that no single theory or analytical framework can adequately account for the diversity of conditions and processes across the South, let alone the nature of relationships between different regional blocs or between South and North. Equally, no theoretical perspective can be entirely discarded, even if now widely discredited as a claimant to be ‘the best’ or ‘the only
credible’ development theory. It is also clear that conditions in the South are becoming increasingly heterogeneous, and this has been amply illustrated with respect to the transport sector and how it relates to wider development processes in specific contexts. It is against this background that the so-called postmodern turn in development theory should be seen. Provided that this is taken to mean that discordant voices, different explanations and divergent paths can have simultaneous legitimacy, then it certainly represents an important step forward. However, any meaningful social organisation or action, let alone policy and planning, still requires some accommodation, some sense of collective rationale and will.
