The psychology behind economic prosperity in Latin America: a path towards change?

In his book "The Weirdest People in the World," Joseph Henrich presents the interesting hypothesis that economic prosperity is intrinsically linked to certain psychological aspects that distinguish Western societies, particularly prosperous ones. The acronym WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic) is used by Henrich to describe these characteristics that have enabled economic and social development in certain regions of the world. However, what happens in countries like Colombia and in Latin America in general, which do not fully fit this Western and prosperous profile? In the Latin American context, it is evident that not all the characteristics of the WEIRD formula are strongly met. Industrialization and democracy, for example, present challenges and obstacles that hinder the path to economic prosperity. The lack of wealth and distrust in Western institutions also raise questions about the identity and future of these societies. Cultural evolution and the psychological landscape are determining factors in how individuals and populations perceive, think, and relate to each other. Influential factors such as clan ties, political corruption, and lack of solid institutions directly impact the social and economic development of a country. In this sense, the dissolution of clan ties and the consolidation of impersonal institutions have been key to the success of Western societies. In the current debate on economic and political direction, there are contrasting views that seek equality through resource redistribution and those that advocate for innovation and entrepreneurship as drivers of growth. This dichotomy reflects different mentalities and psychological approaches that can determine the future of a society in terms of prosperity and development. The thought experiment proposed by Henrich comparing two cities with different economic approaches illustrates how political and economic decisions have a direct impact on the behavior and mentality of their inhabitants in the long term. While one city may promote solidarity through redistribution, another may drive innovation and progress through entrepreneurship. In the Latin American case, historical complexity and past experiences have shaped the collective psychology of its inhabitants, creating inertia that can be difficult to change. The lack of economic prosperity can affect the population's psychology, creating a vicious cycle that limits growth and development possibilities. Ultimately, the relationship between psychology and economic prosperity is a relevant topic in the discussion about the future of Latin American societies. Understanding how psychological aspects influence political and economic decisions can be key to driving a true change towards a sustainable and prosperous development model. The challenges are significant, but reflection and critical analysis can be the first step towards a profound transformation in the region.