Health in the Guatemalan Economy

This publication address a wide range of issues affecting health in Guatemala's economy, including various types of economic organization and potential dangers the world faces as a new century begins. In a way, this publication seems to be a culmination of the major authors we have read thus far this semester. For instance, the chapters regarding the freedom to work, have, and produce, correlate with Sen's opinions of development because they are discussed as capabilities essential for freedom. Furthermore, Carol Smith and Lovell find common ground in the parts of the report (mainly the beginning) that address conceptual and historical considerations. I like the way this report ties Sen and Lovell together right before Part II stating "low levels of development produce informality, which in turn hinders modernization. However, informality is also an option for survival. The growth of the informal sector evinces a deficiency in public institutions." The variety of lessons learned in this publication will be of use to decision-makers, health and development experts, emerging civil society groups, and even groups like us in Guatemala to help guide them in better addressing the enormous risk facing all sectors of society as a result of globalization by enabling them to take advantage of the tremendous potential this process affords.