'The authors have used sound social and behavioural science concepts and empirical evidence to challenge the very notion of international aid. Using the core principles of dominance, injustice and threats to cultural identity, they identify what is basically ineffective, and even counterproductive in the current system of international aid and development. This book is a most welcome addition to the growing call to rethink this whole dimension of international relations.' - John Berry, Professor Emeritus, Queen's University, Canada. 'This approachable and imaginative book takes a very different look at the practice of International Aid. Written by social scientists with considerable experience in the area, it offers not only a critique of current practices but also advice about how really to help those who need it. It is written with passion and clarity but always supported by the scientific literature in the area. It deserves to be, and I am sure will be, read by many working in International Aid worldwide.' - Professor Adrian Furnham, University College London, UK 'At last! A book that addresses the psychological politics braided through civil society, governmental and multilateral agencies involved in aid. Confronting the taboos of implicit dominance and its associated injustices, this book argues for the importance of strengthening local capabilities and identities, particularly among those traditionally marginalised by mainstream society. I highly recommend it.' - A.K. Dube, CEO, Secretariat of the African Decade for Persons with Disability, South Africa 'A thought-provoking book that poses key questions about the nature and mechanisms of development. It is an anthropocentric and humane analysis of the contemporary industry of international relations, striving with humility for both the giver and receiver of aid to 'develop' through creative action. The book identifies the human at the center of international assistance as the origin of an appropriate hermeneutic of development, but cogently argues that recognition of this human concern is generally 'taboo', trumped by the interests of business and politics. Taking cues from social-psychological evaluation of the nature of giving, the authors challenge the neo-liberal priorities of modern development practice, and envision an approach to international assistance free from dominance, injustice and the suppression of local identity.' - Professor Alastair Ager, Executive Director, Global Health Initiative, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, USA 'This book places justice - between individuals, between organisations and between countries and international organisations - at the heart of international aid and development; explaining its relationship with dominance and identity in a challenging, authoritative and engaging way.' - Mary Robinson, Realizing Rights: The Ethical Globalization Initiative