ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book shows how policies and program that were designed to increase agricultural production in Costa Rica have resulted in greater productivity and exports. It illustrates the pressures and institutional context that can negate the potential influence of social analysis in development projects sponsored by United States Agency for International Development. The book discusses what types of information agencies need in order to make their projects more effective in accomplishing the goals of die target population. It examines several major Mexican development projects to determine how institutional imperatives facilitate or limit social impact analysis (SIA) application, and therefore the extent to which SIA is likely to play a role in policy selection and implementation. The book explains the historic inquiry of the Berger Commission into the consequences of constructing a gas pipeline and energy corridor through the underdeveloped Mackenzie River and delta region.
