The Role of Spirituality in Development

Abstract

<p>Spirituality is not considered to be important in most present-day development theories and practices. This research was a qualitative study that proposed an alternative approach to development. It addresses the question 'what is the influence of spirituality on development?' and associated questions of 'what is spirituality?' and 'what is development?' The literature reviewed suggests that current global development efforts have not been able to fulfil their promise of prosperity to humanity as a whole. As spirituality is a vital aspect of individual development, in this research, attention was directed to understanding the influence it could have on a community's path to development. The theoretical framework of this research was primarily grounded on the principles of the Baha'i Faith and its approach to development. To carry out the research, I conducted the fieldwork in a village on Tanna Island, South of Vanuatu, where I interviewed the research participants and organised focus groups. The village has been attempting to vigorously implement the spiritual principles as the basis for the progress of their community. Further understanding was gained by reading the literature used by the community pertaining to their approach to development. This research documented the knowledge and the insights the community has been generating in order to learn about the impact of their efforts on their communities, draw conclusions and suggest further avenues for research. From the analysis of the research data, seventeen themes emerged that were of most concern and significance to the research participants. From the data collected in this research, and its analysis a strong connection between spirituality and community development was evident. This thesis therefore established that spirituality has a direct and a positive impact on the communities where it is consciously incorporated into their approach to development. The research unveiled how the approach adopted in Baha’i inspired communities to organise, train and support members produces sustainable development outcomes, which are attributable to spirituality that continuously guides behaviours positively.</p>