This story was first shared with me by a Professor in a course that I was taking, which focuses on Non-governmental organizations on a global stage. Throughout the duration of the course our class explored a variety of different topics and have some heated discussions at times. Topics including looking that the perspectives of traditional Northern NGOs compared to Southern NGOs, the role of civil society, and transformative versus constitutive change. One of the stories that still sticks with me to this day was “To Hell with Good Intentions” by Ivan Illich. Although this speech was given in 1968 there are so many of his comments that still ring true today.
I thought I would share this with the community and see what people think. Do these issues still occur today that Illich discusses? Do you agree with his point of view? Does this remind you of any stories that may have happened in your community or in your life?
I would love to hear your thoughts! I know this was a very controversial speech in 1968 and it still is today. I hope you find it as probing as I did when I first read it in my course.
