3 ‘Communities’, power, and participation: unpacking concepts from praxis
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Anuj Kapilashrami
Abstract
This chapter explores the contested concepts of ‘community’ and ‘community development’, emphasising the critical role of power dynamics and participation in shaping these concepts. It traces the historical and theoretical underpinnings of community development, from Marxist and feminist influences to post-colonial ideas and contemporary practices. By analysing community development initiatives in India as a case study, the chapter illustrates the complexities and challenges in achieving authentic community participation. It highlights the gap between the rhetoric and reality of participation, underscoring the importance of rights-based, context-sensitive approaches that empower marginalised groups and tackle structural inequalities.
Abstract
This chapter explores the contested concepts of ‘community’ and ‘community development’, emphasising the critical role of power dynamics and participation in shaping these concepts. It traces the historical and theoretical underpinnings of community development, from Marxist and feminist influences to post-colonial ideas and contemporary practices. By analysing community development initiatives in India as a case study, the chapter illustrates the complexities and challenges in achieving authentic community participation. It highlights the gap between the rhetoric and reality of participation, underscoring the importance of rights-based, context-sensitive approaches that empower marginalised groups and tackle structural inequalities.
Chapters in this book
- Front Matter i
- Contents v
- List of figures, boxes, and case studies vi
- Acknowledgements viii
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Participation, power, and public health: historical influences and modern imperatives
- Introduction 3
- History of community participation in public health: from primary care movement to UHC 27
- ‘Communities’, power, and participation: unpacking concepts from praxis 44
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Pathways to health justice: community organising, collective action, and accountability
- Engaging communities at the margins to reduce health inequalities 69
- Building sustainable social movements for the right to health 83
- Addressing political, economic, and commercial forces shaping health 102
- Strengthening accountability for the right to health 122
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Tools for transformation and organising for change: arts, media, and participatory action research
- Community activism in action 143
- The role of arts, social media, and participatory action research in advancing health rights 158
- Conclusion: Community organising and collective action as countervailing power for healthy and just societies 179
- Glossary 185
- Notes 190
- References 191
- Index 224
Chapters in this book
- Front Matter i
- Contents v
- List of figures, boxes, and case studies vi
- Acknowledgements viii
-
Participation, power, and public health: historical influences and modern imperatives
- Introduction 3
- History of community participation in public health: from primary care movement to UHC 27
- ‘Communities’, power, and participation: unpacking concepts from praxis 44
-
Pathways to health justice: community organising, collective action, and accountability
- Engaging communities at the margins to reduce health inequalities 69
- Building sustainable social movements for the right to health 83
- Addressing political, economic, and commercial forces shaping health 102
- Strengthening accountability for the right to health 122
-
Tools for transformation and organising for change: arts, media, and participatory action research
- Community activism in action 143
- The role of arts, social media, and participatory action research in advancing health rights 158
- Conclusion: Community organising and collective action as countervailing power for healthy and just societies 179
- Glossary 185
- Notes 190
- References 191
- Index 224
