Notes for Understanding Development: Definitions, Interpretations, and Perspectives - IB | RevisionDojo
Understanding Development: Definitions, Interpretations, and Perspectives Notes
What Is Development?
In global politics, there are four key, interconnected and interdependent dimensions of development:
Political development: improvements in governance, democracy, and rights.
Social and human development: focus on well-being, inclusion, and empowerment.
Institutional development: strengthening effective and transparent institutions.
Economic development: promoting growth, income equality, and access to resources.
Note
Development is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It varies based on cultural, historical, and political contexts.
China's Development
1. Political Development
Refers to the development of political and social institutions.
Key elements:
Democratization: Transition to democratic systems, supported by bodies like USAID.
Governmental accountability: Citizens hold leaders responsible, essential to fight corruption (e.g. Venezuela’s PDVSA embezzlement).
Human rights: Development is seen as a human right (UN OHCHR), with aid effectiveness tied to human rights respect (Aid Conditionality Hypothesis).
Case study
Tunisia: Political Development
Context: Following mass protests, Tunisia overthrew its authoritarian regime and began building democratic institutions.
Reforms: Introduced a new constitution (2014), held free elections, and expanded civil liberties.
Impact: Recognized as a rare success story in the region, Tunisia showed how democratization and government accountability can lead to greater political stability and citizen participation.
Why it matters: Tunisia illustrates how political development—via democratic reform and institutional strengthening—can support broader development goals like human rights and stability.
2. Social and Human Development
Social development relates to collective societal progress (e.g. inclusion, accountability, well-being).
Human development focuses on individuals’ opportunities and freedoms (e.g. access to health, education, employment).
Overlap: Good health/education benefit both human and social dimensions.
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Questions
Recap questions
1 of 5
Question 1
Recap question
A country experiences rapid GDP growth of over 7% annually but sees minimal improvement in its Human Development Index (HDI). Which critique of GDP as a development measure does this scenario illustrate?
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Note
Introduction to Development
Development is a multifaceted concept that encompasses more than just economic growth.
It includes political, social, institutional, and economic dimensions.
Think of development as a four-legged table - if one leg is weak, the whole table becomes unstable.
Different countries prioritize different aspects of development based on their unique contexts.
DefinitionDevelopment
The process of improving the quality of life and well-being of people through economic growth, social progress, political stability, and institutional strength.
Analogy
Development is like a garden - it requires careful nurturing of different elements (soil, water, sunlight, and care) to flourish. Similarly, a society needs balanced growth in various areas to thrive.
