Monolithic to Polycentric Notion for Development Discourse

Monolithic notion of development has tried to define and understand the development process as static and unchangeable while polycentric notion defines the development process as changeable. Polycentric notion states the development discourse can be modified by the introduction of new objects and variables that could be introduced in time intervals.

It is based on the conventional notion of transfer of technology providing technical information passed form the experts to the ignorant. The approaches are based on the one way model of development, communication which is incompatible with a focus on participation of the people. It is based on the materialistic and mechanistic philosophy born of the west and rejects the reinforcing material, social and spiritual part of non-western society. It has a national framework and pays little attraction to the interest of the group for whom the development is meant for.

The development concept is conceived and implemented by a central authority which determines priorities as well as the areas and strategies of development without prior consultation with people about their feelings and needs of development.