ABSTRACT
In this chapter I examine a failed project to add subject formation to micro-lending groups in Bolivia studied by Sian Lazar; a large-scale project in Indonesia to make communities into development subjects analyzed by Tania Li; the odd phenomenon of non-market neoliberal subjects explored by Tania Li; and subject creation aspects of the contemporary global economy that utilize cultural differences examined by Anna Tsing. Subject formation pervades conservation and development, with a long history of user groups, social capital, microcredit, and community-driven development. It also pervades our economy, especially its low-wage sectors. In both locations, it is neoliberal, based on a core assumption that poor people can be improved by guiding them to become homo economicus. But these readings suggest that homo economicus is disturbingly cultural and social. Neoliberal subject creation, if these authors are right, depends on the non-economic.
