Post-development theory has been seen to be beneficial in debates about democracy as it provides
an alternative to the traditional development discourse. It argues that democracy should be seen as
a process rather than an end goal, and that it should be based on the principles of participation,
inclusion and self-determination. This means that citizens have a say in the decisions that affect their
lives, allowing them to shape their own destiny and create a more equitable society. Post-
development theory also emphasizes the importance of local knowledge and culture, which can help
to create more meaningful and sustainable democracies. By recognizing the value of local
knowledge, citizens can become more engaged in decision making processes and create a stronger
sense of community. Ultimately, post-development theory provides an alternative way of looking at
democracy that can lead to greater social justice and equality.
Post-development theorists argue that democracy is a key factor in development discourse, as it
allows for the participation of citizens in decision-making processes. This can lead to more equitable
outcomes and greater transparency in the development process, as well as increased accountability
and responsiveness from government officials. Additionally, democracy can help to ensure that
resources are distributed more fairly and equitably among citizens, allowing for greater economic
growth and social stability. Finally, democracy can help to create a sense of ownership over the
development process among citizens, leading to greater engagement and support for development
initiatives.