"Active paternalism", i.e. vestigial imperialism

David Brooks wrote an article in the New York Times basically stating that Haitian culture is "progress-resistant" and that this "resistance" is making the Haitian earthquake disaster worse. He says that throwing money at the problem is not going to help and that an "active paternalism" is needed to tell Haitians what to do to improve.

Mr. Brooks' article receives the tongue-lashing it deserves over at thwap's.

Brooks ignores the fact that the Haitian government right now is just an inept puppet government set up with external influence by the usual suspects. The West is already actively interfering in Haiti to no one's benefit. "Active paternalism" on how to use money is basically a form of economic imperialism, telling the Haitians what to do through economic means. Perhaps the Haitians would be better off if the West actually listened to what they say they need and then actually worked with them to help them achieve their goals, not the West's. Still, Haitians continue to do their best with the little that they have.

I never thought I would have to say this, as it should be obvious after an earthquake, but please donate if you can. Don't worry about what David Brooks says about money being wasted. Money is needed, and NGOs generally know what they are doing (unlike meddling foreign governments).

Peace and long life.