,DVA3703 Assignment 2 (COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 1 2025 - DUE 7 April 2025; 100%
TRUSTED Complete, trusted solutions and
explanations.
MULTIPLE CHOICE,ASSURED EXCELLENCE
Discuss the evolution of the concept of development and its
implications on development policy in Africa.
The Evolution of the Concept of Development and Its
Implications on Development Policy in Africa
1. Evolution of the Concept of Development
The concept of development has evolved significantly over
time, reflecting changes in economic thought, political
ideologies, and social priorities. Broadly, the evolution can be
categorized into several phases:
a. Modernization Theory (1950s–1960s):
Development was viewed as a linear process where
societies move from traditional to modern stages through
industrialization, urbanization, and technological
advancement.
Emphasis was placed on economic growth measured by
GDP, industrialization, infrastructure development, and
Westernization.
, Policies promoted by this approach in Africa focused on
economic growth through industrialization, urbanization,
and the adoption of Western technologies.
b. Dependency Theory (1960s–1980s):
Emerged as a critique of modernization theory, particularly
in Latin America and Africa.
Argued that underdevelopment was not a stage but rather
a consequence of exploitative relationships between
developed and developing countries (core-periphery
model).
Emphasized the need for structural changes, self-reliance,
and reducing dependence on Western economies.
African policies influenced by dependency theory included
import substitution industrialization (ISI) and efforts to
break economic ties with former colonial powers.
c. Basic Needs Approach (1970s):
Development began to be understood beyond mere
economic growth, focusing on the improvement of
people's quality of life.
Prioritized meeting essential human needs like food,
shelter, education, and healthcare.
Semester 1 2025 - DUE 7 April 2025; 100%
TRUSTED Complete, trusted solutions and
explanations.
MULTIPLE CHOICE,ASSURED EXCELLENCE
Discuss the evolution of the concept of development and its
implications on development policy in Africa.
The Evolution of the Concept of Development and Its
Implications on Development Policy in Africa
1. Evolution of the Concept of Development
The concept of development has evolved significantly over
time, reflecting changes in economic thought, political
ideologies, and social priorities. Broadly, the evolution can be
categorized into several phases:
a. Modernization Theory (1950s–1960s):
Development was viewed as a linear process where
societies move from traditional to modern stages through
industrialization, urbanization, and technological
advancement.
Emphasis was placed on economic growth measured by
GDP, industrialization, infrastructure development, and
Westernization.
, Policies promoted by this approach in Africa focused on
economic growth through industrialization, urbanization,
and the adoption of Western technologies.
b. Dependency Theory (1960s–1980s):
Emerged as a critique of modernization theory, particularly
in Latin America and Africa.
Argued that underdevelopment was not a stage but rather
a consequence of exploitative relationships between
developed and developing countries (core-periphery
model).
Emphasized the need for structural changes, self-reliance,
and reducing dependence on Western economies.
African policies influenced by dependency theory included
import substitution industrialization (ISI) and efforts to
break economic ties with former colonial powers.
c. Basic Needs Approach (1970s):
Development began to be understood beyond mere
economic growth, focusing on the improvement of
people's quality of life.
Prioritized meeting essential human needs like food,
shelter, education, and healthcare.
