IB Global Politics Debates on Development and Sustainability Key Definitions

Energy security refers to the uninterrupted availability of energy sources at an affordable price, encompassing the physical security of supply infrastructure, the diversification of suppliers and routes, and the strategic management of energy as a component of national and economic security.

Global governance refers to the framework of rules, institutions, and processes that guide international cooperation and decision-making.

Refers to economically and industrially advanced countries, generally located north of less developed nations.

Refers to countries with lower levels of economic and industrial development, typically found south of more developed nations.

Process of increasing global interconnectedness through trade, investment, culture, technology, and population movement. Complex interdependence (Nye).

Inequality refers to the uneven distribution of resources, opportunities, and power among individuals, groups, or nations.

Strong sustainability holds that certain forms of natural capital are critical and cannot be substituted by anything else. Their loss makes the whole system unsustainable, no matter how much else is gained.

Brundtland Commission defines it as: "Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." Other definitions emphasize the need to balance economic growth, social well-being, and environmental protection.

Weak sustainability holds that natural capital can be substituted by human-made capital. So long as total capital is maintained or grows, the loss of any single natural resource is acceptable.