Synopses & Reviews
Empowerment is a popular buzz-word used by many diverse development organizations - but what does it really mean? Jo Rowlands examines the various meanings given to the concept of empowerment, and the many ways in which power can be expressed, in personal relationships and in wider social interactions. The book examines two development projects in Honduras which were both concerned mainly with women, comparing their different approaches, and assessing the extent to which the women involved were empowered as a result of their experiences. empowerment is possible for women without major changes in social attitudes.
Synopsis
Empowerment is a term which is used by organisations as diverse as the World Bank and grassroots community groups. This book examines the various meanings given to the concept, and the many ways in which power can be expressed, in personal relationships and in wider social interactions. It focuses on two development projects in Honduras, comparing their different approaches and assessing the extent to which the women involved were empowered as a result of their experiences. Questioning Empowerment represents a challenge to those involved in development initiatives, who may be tempted to make unrealistic claims about the positive changes which can result from their work, and questions how far genuine empowerment is possible for women without major changes in social attitudes.
Synopsis
Focusing on the term empowerment this book examines the various meanings given to the concept of empowerment and the many ways power can be expressed - in personal relationships and in wider social interactions. The text assesses two development projects