Theodore Macdonald

Richard Mayon-White

This work includes forewords by Senator Noel A Kinsella and John A Gibson, respectively Speaker, Canadian Senate; Barrister at Law and Principal, International Refugee Consulting. This is a book based on what the Charter of the UN states about health as a basic human right. General readers will find a refreshing, up-to-date account of why these issues are so crucial, while professionals will find the cogent epidemiological analyses needed to inform research efforts. The book argues that the major causes of ill-health are not bacteria and viruses, or even war and natural disasters, but poverty. If we could solve the immensely complex problems of global inequities in wealth, the health inequities would largely vanish. The issue is not a simple one. This book sets out, among other things, to break down the communication barriers between the 'professionals' (doctors, economists and international bankers) and the ordinary person who looks with dismay at international injustice but feels totally inadequate in the face of it. The book argues that neoliberal approaches to global finance and international trade, which are inextricably linked to the looming environmental crisis, are not the only way open to us, and suggests alternatives. Above all, it offers hope and a useful role for all of us in solving the problems. Theodore H MacDonald's previous books have won international acclaim. To this new title he brings to bear the fruits of years of experience as a medical doctor, teacher and researcher in some of the poorest countries in the world. This book is provocative and will inspire informed action on the part of all of us. "The passion, conviction and wealth of knowledge of this work's author are evident. His ability as a communicator in conjunction with a tempered expertise held by few enables him to identify, analyze and provide his reflection on the right to health and its relation to global economics. The content and style of the writing reflects MacDonald's impressive experiential background. Theodore Macdonald is known internationally as a leader in the promotion of the human right to health. Not only does this work have great heuristic value, it also serves as an example of how the efforts of one remarkable individual can address the concerns of millions." - Noel A Kinsella, in his Foreword. "Optimistic, clear and concise. [The book] greatly informs a lay reader like myself. Arguments are invariably backed up by hard empirical data drawn from a range of authoritative sources. [This book] significantly adds to the understanding of health as a fundamental human right, the content of that right and what must be done to ensure that it can become a reality for the millions who presently lack even an acceptable standard of primary health care. The reader is left with a clear message; unless we evaluate alternatives to existing structures to bring about qualitative change in health outcomes in the developing world, environmental disaster fuelled by war and international chaos is our probable destiny. I am honoured to have been asked to write this forward and enthusiastically recommend it to anyone with an interest in the future of mankind." - John A Gibson, in his Foreword.

Dream or Possibility?

The Global Human Right to Health

This book provides the reader with a story that has been many years in the making. It is the story of the Runa, a Quichua-speaking Indian population in Ecuador's Amazon region. It offers a window onto another culture, an illustration of the relationship between ethnicity and culture, and a story of the mobilization of an indigenous group. And when the reader arrives at the book's end, he or she will understand why the story is not merely shelved and finished, but is rather an ongoing tale that will continue for years to come. The author has been following the Runa's adaptation to continuous changes around and amongst them since 1974. When he first met the Runa, they were practicing swidden horticulture, hunting, fishing, and living their created culture while also reacting to external pressures imposed on them by newly arrived colonists and changing national legislation. This book follows the Runa from a passive accommodating society to an active organized group. The Runa thus became one of the early standard bearers in what is now a hemispheric social movement -- indigenous ethnic federations. These organizations have changed Latin America by successfully thrusting indigenous identities and concerns into the middle of national political arenas that previously marginalized and stigmatized them. Anthropologists or anyone interested in other cultures. Part of the New Immigrant's Series.

The Runa of Ecuador's Amazon Region

Ethnicity and Culture Amidst New "neighbors"

James Raftery

This remarkable book offers enlightening reading for everyone interested in international law, human rights, global health, public health and health promotion. Public health and health promotion professionals, including international healthcare organisations, care agencies, and international charities will find the analysis illuminating. It is also of great interest to policy makers and shapers in communities and government, political activists and all those with an interest in equality and globalisation.

Theodore Macdonald

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