"When Helping Hurts" - Book Review

One of my interests over the years has been community and economic development. Twenty years ago, when I was studying at Eastern University getting an M.B.A. in economic development, we read lots of books about the topic. I’ve read a number since. There have been a number of good books but I recently read one I want to recommend to those of you who are interested in the topic.

When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor … and Yourself by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert. The blurb on the back of the book says:

When Helping Hurts reveals the painful truth about poverty. But it does more than tell you what not to do. The book moves from foundational concepts about poverty (Who are the poor?), to principles (Should we do relief, rehabilitation, or development?), to strategies (How can we help the poor domestically? Internationally?)

The book is relatively short read but it is intended for a lay audience and gives a wonderful introduction into thinking about development issues from a Christian perspective. It even has a chapter that challenges us to rethink what we are doing with our short-term mission trips.

I suspect I’m probably not as theologically conservative as the authors but I readily embrace how they have processed the issues through a Christian lens. I’ve recommended the book to several people so I thought I would recommend here to you as well.

Comments

[victorclaar.blogspot.com]

Thanks, Mike!

Sometime in the last 24 hours, I was thinking to myself, "I hope there will be a review of this on Kruse Kronicle."

Seriously!

[Michael W. Kruse]

I plan to do some blogging about specific portions in the book later but I thought I'd at least put this short blurb out there now.

[Conrade Yap]

Michael,
Reading your blurb and the title of the book makes me think that it will be a worthwhile read. What a refreshing way to remind all helpers the difference between "giving away a fish" and "teaching people how to fish."

Thanks for your post

conrade

[Grace]

Thanks for your review of the book! I've posted a link to it on the Chalmers facebook and twitter pages.

[Michael W. Kruse]

You're welcome. I hope to say more about the book in future posts.

[victorclaar.blogspot.com]

Picked this up today after my Sunday afternoon nap. Seems like an easy read that will challenge a lot of preconceived notions. I found Brian Fikkert's intro quite engaging. I'm looking forward to the rest.

[Michael W. Kruse]

I think it is an outstanding book ... particularly for people who have little training in business or economics. Hope you enjoy it.

BTW, I forecast at least a 75% chance of going to Acton University in June.

[victorclaar.blogspot.com]

Yay! I really hope to see you there, Mike.