In light of recent debates and studies on what political scientists call
developmental authoritarianism and what some economists consider the East Asian
model of economic growth, this book analyzes and evaluates Burma's economic
performance under military management. It considers the relationship between
democracy and economic growth, especially the thesis advanced by Asian
authoritarian leaders that sociopolitical stability and discipline must be
established as a prerequisite to economic development. Based upon empirical and
historical facts, the book shows that the present military regime's denial of
democracy to the people and its ostentatious economic reforms have not promoted
real economic growth and human development in Burma.
That regime, the State