Approaches to Development and Sustainability Notes

Approaches to Development and Sustainability

Three Development Theories

1. Modernization Theory

1. Suggests countries develop in 5 linear stages (Rostow):
   1. Traditional → 2. Transitional → 3. Take-off → 4. Drive to maturity → 5. Mass consumption
2. Global South can catch up to Global North by replicating its path: free markets, democracy, industrialization.
3. Criticism: Ignores colonial legacies, assumes all countries follow same path.

2. Dependency Theory (Neo-Marxism)

1. Global South remains poor due to historical colonial exploitation and ongoing dependence on the Global North.
2. Structures of trade, aid, and investment favour the North.
3. Key issues:
   1. Commodity concentration: Reliance on a few exports (e.g., copper from Zambia).
   2. Protectionism by the North: Rich countries promote free trade but impose tariffs on goods from the global south.
   3. Aid often supports elites and imposes conditions

3. Neoliberalism

1. Promotes global free trade, comparative advantage, and reduced government intervention.
2. Belief: Market liberalization helps all countries develop.
3. Criticism: Overlooks global inequalities and internal capacity limits in poorer states.

Capability Approach (Amartya Sen & Martha Nussbaum)

1. Focuses on what people are able to do and be, not just economic growth.
2. Key ideas:
   1. Functionings: states of being (e.g. being healthy, educated).
   2. Capabilities: real freedoms/opportunities to achieve functionings.
3. Sen’s example: A starving person vs. a fasting person – both aren't eating, but only one has the choice.
4. Nussbaum’s key capabilities include:
   1. Life, health, imagination, emotional attachments, recreation, political freedom, etc.