From Individuality to Collectivity: The Challenges for Technology-Oriented Development Projects

Abstract

This chapter explores the contributions of the capability approach to technological aid projects implemented in small communities or villages. To achieve that objective we examine the evolution of technology-oriented development projects and the limitations of its current conceptualisation. After exploring the capability approach, we present a new framework for technology within the context of human development, the Technologies for Freedom (T4F). Throughout the chapter we introduce three case studies of power projects implemented in rural villages. The cases are funded by similar donors, and obtain the same results (ends) in the space of resources – a sufficient amount of energy for the communities. Nevertheless, the results differ in terms of processes (means) such as participation and empowerment of people. This chapter aims to show how technological artefacts (products, equipments, etc.) and organizational processes and relationships are ends of community interventions; but they also represent the means that allow people to do and to achieve whatever goals or values they regard as important, enhancing the ability of the community to help themselves to make changes happen. And, what is more important, that people can collectively become agents of change rather than being simple recipients of aid. Thus, we conclude that technology-oriented development projects can be vehicles for expanding people’s freedom (individual capabilities) but also to enhance their ability (individually and as a group) to pursue goals they consider valuable (agency).