The liberation of development

The liberation of development is the release of geographic research from the domination of the economic model. Much of human activity across the globe has been rendered marginal by the focus on economic growth as the only measure of development. Our inability to observe, record and analyze development that does not generate income has affected geographers' ability to contribute to the current discourse on the dichotomy between human progress and nature conservation. Economic development is only one of three forms of development: human, social and resource. It is dependent on the first two and must be considered a neutral factor in integrated development. The need for sustainable development requires a human-centered approach in development theory as one cannot be achieved without the other.Alternatives to the economic model have been motivated by political and or religious principal. This paper uses an umbrella term, One-World Development movement, to describe the many alternatives pursued globally. Three examples of the movement are explored: voluntary simplicity, alternative trading organizations and multiculturalism/liberation theology. Some of the most significant progress in social development worldwide during the last two decades have been impelled by the movement.