In the last few decades, the idea of "development" has usually been associated with progress, modernity, and emancipation. The author argues that, to the contrary, it is actually a term that has been used to mask the organizational plunder of resources and instill violence into the culture. He demonstrates this with the abundant use of case studies as well as viable alternative forms of progress. This work will be of interest to those interested in the ecology and environmental studies, as well as development economists.