Good Living (Sumak Kawsay): definitions, critique and implications for development planning in Ecuador

ABSTRACT While progressive governments are in transition in the region, in Ecuador the progressive government will continue. It is important to review some key aspects of the Ecuadorean context and its relation with the development model as a reflection of capital accumulation. This essay analyses Good Living/Sumak Kawsay as a civilization alternative and reviews National Development plans. Even though another way of living was proposed, little transformation was actually achieved; looking ten years back, we have a modern Ecuadorean state, a more humane capitalism. Despite Sumak Kawsay currently being empty of content, we suggest it is worthwhile to recover that dimension.