Abstract

The history of international responses to problems of hunger and malnutrition, while uneven in effectiveness terms, might more accurately be described as a progression of programmatic approaches. These approaches (1) have usually embodied considerable logic based on contemporary understandings, (2) have often been informed by some understanding of causality and by considerations of equity and community-based decision making (not new in nutrition), and (3) have, in turn, significantly informed subsequent approaches. While we must be relentless in our efforts to mobilize greater commitment—and resources—for the alleviation of hunger and malnutrition, we should be supportive, not dismissive, of efforts to assist those in need today