Flattening the Andes : growth points, spread effects and perverse institutions

Abstract

In this paper we explore in part 1 the historical roots of the marginalisation of the highlands, and with that the inadequate or perverse presence of the state. In part 2 we show the deficiencies of this model in the pre-conditions for trickle-down, and the weak or perverse nature of local politics. In part 3 we use this analysis to explore a remarkable contemporary instance of developmental initiative in the highlands, which has ultimately been intensely disappointing in its outcomes, and we ask what the barriers and failures were: this is the case of Espinar.