Fatalism and Development

This book looks at Nepal's society and the way it has tried to develop and answer change. According to the author, that society is heteronomous, with a complicated ethnic mixture. The book argues that fatalism, an alien culture, conflicts with development and lowers the value of productivity, so progress depends on outside aid that does not always reach the people who add to growth. The author holds that Nepal's strengths rest in its ethnic groups, and that their simple cultures are more open to change than the stiff society of the Kathmandu Valley's upper class and caste.

Why You Should Read?

• Explore the book's case that fatalism stands in the way of development and lessens regard for productivity.
• Understand how, according to the author, outside help does not always reach those who add to growth.
• Learn how the author pictures Nepal's society as heteronomous, with a complicated mix of ethnic groups.
• Discover why the book sees more flexibility for change in simple ethnic cultures than in caste society.

About the Author

Dor Bahadur Bista was a Nepalese anthropologist, activist and social scientist who is regarded as the Father of Nepali anthropology. His other published work includes People of Nepal. He disappeared mysteriously in 1995.