Walking with the Poor: Principles and Practices of Transformational Development

by Bryant L. Myers

A partial list of Wink's delusional assumptions includes: • The need to prevent social chaos requires that some should dominate others. • Men are better at being dominant than women; some races are more naturally suited to dominate others. • A valued end justifies any means. • Violence is redemptive; it is the only language enemies understand. • Ruling or managing is the most important social function. • Rulers and managers are entitled to extra privileges and wealth. • Those with the greatest military strength, the most advanced technology, the biggest markets, and the most wealth are the ones who will and should survive. • Production of wealth is more important than production of healthy, normal people and sound human relationships. • Property is sacred and property ownership is an absolute right. • Institutions are more important than people. • God, if there is a God, is the protector and patron of the powerful. (Wink 1992, 95)