ABSTRACT
This chapter first discusses the main forms of development in Colonial Africa, Asia, and South America. It then outlines a history of economic and correlative institutional development in the areas corresponding to four Latin American countries, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, all founding members of the Mercosur Common Market since its inception in 1991. Next, the chapter identifies significant contrasts and similarities among alternative forms of development found in the area, and the conflicts prompted concerning them. Further, it describes alternative responses–some recurrent from old, others more recent–to these forms of development and the risks associated with each. Finally, the chapter proposes some ways in which ethics and sociopolitical philosophy, in conjunction with relevant scientific studies and participation of the general public, can contribute to institute effective, morally sound, and less conflictive forms of development.
