Polarizing Mexico: The Impact of Liberalization Strategy

Since the end of the 1980s, structural changes have profoundly altered Mexico's economy and society. But has the outcome been a positive one? Dussel Peters argues that liberalization strategy in Mexico has been successful in achieving its stated, short-term aims. But in looking at fundamental issues of employment and income distribution, foreign trade, and industrial specialization—regional and overall—he demonstrates that the strategy has caused a polarization of both economy and society, creating unsustainable socioeconomic conditions.This scenario, Dussel Peters contends, is not unique to Mexico, but is relevant for other nations following similar development paths. He concludes with a discussion of alternative strategies for economic development.