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Synopsis It is truism that mainstream social sciences are firmly integrated into the World capitalist system. But though development research in social anthropology and sociology is pervasive, there is little critical awareness of the politics of development. This volume examining theoretical and cognitive systems of anthropology and sociology provides an overview of their controversial role in development and underdevelopment of the third world. Evaluating some contemporary issues like tribal welfare, rural development, population policy and land reforms, the author traces the extent of interpenetration of neocolonial and state sponsored social science activities. A discourse in Marxist anthropology suggests an alternate, dynamic and relevant perspective of development. The book is not only a valuable addition to the literature on demystification of western social sciences but also the suggested strategies for increasing the usefulness of anthropology for the third world societies. Anthropology for the third world societies. It is an essential reading for a wide range of reflective scholars and activists, especially those connected with issue of third world development.