"This book shows, through in-depth case-studies, how some relatively low-income countries (and a state within a federation) have made enormous strides in overcoming acute social problems such as adult illiteracy, lack of schooling, high child mortality, rapid population growth, mass poverty and gender inequalities.". "With contributions from outstanding scholars, the book analyses the experiences with social development and public policy of Chile, China, Costa Rica, Cuba, Kerala, Sri Lanka and Vietnam. Its distinguishing feature is an attempt to use a common and integrated framework comprising historical, cultural and political economy dimensions. The overview chapter draws lessons from their experiences and evaluates their relevance for other countries interested in emulating their achievements."--BOOK JACKET.