Neoliberalism, Globalization, Income Inequality, Poverty And Resistance: Neoliberalism - Hardcover

by Renaldo C. McKenzie (Author)

"When we hear of Jamaica or the Caribbean, we think of beautiful islands of paradise with sun, sea, and sand; Reggae Music, Cannabis, and "irie" people like Usain Bolt, People living out their best dreams, desires, and lives. However, this book analyzes this motif, given the historical and current economic and political situation in Jamaica, the Caribbean, and the Global South. In an attempt to escape the adverse realities of poverty, inequality, and injustice, the people of the global south find themselves in North Metropolises with very little agency and minimal change to their lives.... Moreover, the book critiques the work of nationalists to bring about political independence and equity within and among nations and peoples of the global south, the diaspora, and the US" (McKenzie, Neoliberalism, xi - xvii). This is the Hardcover format of the book Neoliberalism. It is an interdisciplinary and Cosmopolitan approach to the Sociopolitical and economic understanding of the Caribbean and its diaspora. Yet It explores the realities of Jamaica and the Caribbean, challenging the idyllic image often associated with the region. It delves into the Caribbean's historical, economic, and political situations, particularly in the "Global South." The author examines how individuals from the Global South seek better lives but often find themselves with limited agency and minimal opportunities for change in the metropolises of the Global North.

The book focuses on the struggles of Black, brown, and Pan-African communities in their pursuit of economic prosperity, justice, and freedom since decolonization. It questions their ability to shape their futures and achieve political independence and financial well-being. The discussion also highlights the corrupt aspects of the status quo, where a few benefit from partnerships with the neoliberal regime while the masses are left behind.

Using an interdisciplinary and comprehensive approach, the book draws from various disciplines and experiences, extending beyond Jamaica to encompass the wider Caribbean and the diaspora in the United States. It encourages readers to challenge existing narratives, critically analyze the subject matter, and develop their thinking within the Jamaican, Caribbean, diasporic, and American contexts.

The book outlines a two-part project. Part A examines whether Jamaica's inequality trends result from the structural adjustment policies imposed by neoliberal technocrats of the Washington Consensus. It explores the impact of "structural adjustment" on Jamaica's economy and its relationship to income inequality and poverty from the 1960s to 2008.

Part B argues that Jamaica, like many former colonies, remains far from independent despite its experience with neoliberal restructuring. It explores how the Caribbean's economic policies have transformed since World War II, influenced by the resurgence of neoliberalism in the 1980s. The essay discusses Jamaica's deepened dependence on the new global elite and the implications of decolonization and neoliberal globalization, drawing upon Frantz Fanon's ideas.

This book provides a platform for examining and addressing the challenges, opportunities, and solutions concerning Caribbean and Pan-African issues. It encourages critical thinking and exploration of these topics to foster meaningful engagement and sustained improvements in living standards for the region's people.