Reflections on the Approaches to the Problems of Distribution in Underdeveloped Countries

Abstract

Although the problem of income distribution in economies of the capitalist type has been studied since the creation of the classical school — that is since the very beginnings of economic science — the question of distribution in underdeveloped economies has so far remained in the shade. In dealing with these economies, authors have devoted more time to analyzing the forces that limit production and the means of promoting development. This attitude seems logical in respect of such types of economies, where the essential problem is production rather than distribution. There seems little point in attempting to distribute a national income which is increasing slowly if this would give rise to new problems by further complicating a situation that is tricky enough already.