"Bad Samaritans" by Ha-Joon Chang critiques the role of wealthy nations in perpetuating global poverty. The author argues that these nations, often posing as benevolent entities, maintain systems that disadvantage developing countries. He exposes how policies such as free trade, privatization, and deregulation are pushed onto poorer nations, which are ill-equipped to handle such requirements and suffer as a result.
Chang emphasizes that the economic policies recommended by rich nations frequently reflect their own interests rather than the needs of poorer countries. He illustrates how international institutions, like the IMF and World Bank, uphold these toxic guidelines that ultimately hinder the progress of developing economies. This dynamic deepens global inequality and fosters dependency.
The book calls for a reevaluation of international economic practices, urging for a more equitable approach that genuinely supports development. Chang advocates for policies that empower nations rather than impose restrictions, recognizing that sustainable growth can only happen through a departure from the exploitative strategies currently in place.