Rethinking development: Buen Vivir and other theories as alternative and more sustainable ways of living

Abstract

This article analyzes the content and scope of the concept of development and its recognition as a human right, reviewing thoroughly the main criticisms of its implementation based on economistic and anthropocentric criteria from a Western perspective, which have led to the (re)emergence of other theories that seek to set themselves up as alternatives to development. Considering the existence of different positions and using mainly dogmatic and deductive-inductive methods, we analyze the foundations and contents of the Buen Vivir and its relation with other theories, in order to identify the contributions that these ideas can make when designing and articulating social and public policies in this area.