Underdevelopment : An analysis of the geographical economics regarding underdevelopment: "Formosa Case"

Abstract

This work analyzes the important aspects in order for theArgentine province of Formosa, one of the poorest, to be able toreverse the state of underdevelopment and neglect in which it issince its foundation. On the whole, this paper presents how and whyFormosa is the most neglected region of Argentina. The researchanalyzes the particular provincial economic geography showing thatthe region is underdeveloped. In the first section, the debate isrelated to a specific set of approaches about economic developmentand underdevelopment. After presenting the options, the papercontinues with the Economic Commission for Latin America and theCaribbean (ECLAC) center‐periphery and its concept of dependence.In the second section, the paper details the historical evolution ofFormosa in its economic, social and political aspects. Finally, thepaper tries to clarify the current situation of the province, makingsome comparisons with the figures observed throughout thetwentieth century and evaluating the results. Although Formosa hasimproved in recent years, as it is shown by our paper, the path ofdevelopment and integration is permament and involves a processof continuity over time. That has been carried out in recent yearsand it brought about better quality of life for the inhabitants, whichis reflected in the economic and social indicators. The attentionFormosa deserves to change the condition of abandonment andpoverty is just the beginning. Argentina needs each abandonedregion to be included in a development planning. The originality ofthis research is that, so far, there was no analysis of Formosa. Adeveloped country must be built on this kind of research.