Abstract

SCHILS, Lenneke. Una teoría postcolonial de México, Wal-Mart y la idea de progreso: La invasión de los wal-marcianos. Espiral (Guadalaj.) [online]. 2008, vol.14, n.41, pp.41-77. ISSN 1665-0565.

There is not only one understanding of the concept of progress. Nevertheless, it has been (ab)used to justify first colonial subjugation and then postcolonial practices. The use of this concept in international relations allows for the asymmetric relation between the USA and Mexico to perpetuate, by means of the NAFTA and of the multinational companies that have gained access to foreign markets through the same agreement. The prevailing Western notion of progress implies the exercise of the neoliberalism and consequently, consumerism. The best example of this post colonialist behavior is Wal-Mart's invasion of Mexico. Its slogan 'always low prices' would mislead you into believing that its arrival means progress, whereas its low salaries and its stifling practices prevent the country from achieving a self-stimulated growth. The majority of the profit goes on an only-one-way route towards the United States, maintaining the asymmetry among the neighboring countries.

Keywords : progreso; postcolonialismo; neoliberalismo; TLCAN; Wal-Mart.