From White Elephants to Flying Geese: China in Africa a New Model for Development or More of the Same

Abstract

After World War II and de-colonisation, the newly independent states were exposed to its former motherlands, and a number of institutions and experts were all officially intent on helping them to find a shortcut to modernisation. Half a century later, it is possible not only to look at the ebb and flow of different development theories but also at the practical results. Focusing on former colonies, including those achieving their independence during the nineteenth century, is it possible to find any common features for those managing to catch up with the most developed countries and for those falling hopelessly behind?