The Idea
Arkoun holds that dividing the world into North and South does not describe reality as it is, but rather produces it from a particular perspective. The issue is therefore not merely one of geographical or economic difference, but a way of seeing that is presented as natural while in fact carrying a prior judgment. In this sense, the division becomes a tool for understanding the world according to interests and perspectives that are not neutral, rather than according to facts alone.
Condensed Formulation
The North/South model: is: a Western ideological construction
Its Place in the Book’s Argument
This idea lies at the heart of Arkoun’s critique of discourses that appear scientific but conceal intellectual and political choices behind them. He is not discussing only an economic problem here; he is exposing how ready-made concepts are imposed on reality and then used to interpret it. The claim therefore serves the book’s larger argument, namely that many common classifications need to be questioned before being accepted.
Why It Matters
This idea helps explain Arkoun’s method of dismantling assumptions that are presented as self-evident. It shows that he does not merely describe the world, but asks about the language through which we describe it and who benefits from it. From here emerges the importance of the claim in clarifying his critical sense toward ready-made images of the relationship between the West and the rest of the world.
Brief Evidence
Arkoun holds that dividing the world into North and South does not describe reality as it is, but rather produces it from a particular perspective. The issue is therefore not merely one of geographical or economic difference, but a way of seeing that is presented as natural while in fact carrying a prior judgment. In this way, the division becomes a tool for understanding the world according to interests and perspectives that are not neutral.
Reading Questions
- How does this statement change our understanding of the phrase North and South if we do not take it as a neutral classification?
- What is Arkoun seeking to expose when he says that this model is an ideological construction?
Degree of Documentation
High: the claim appears in a clear location in the book’s material.