Some uses of the term 'development'

Here is a list of sentences containing the term 'development':

'If we look at the development of the project we can see how more and more people became involved'

'The development of nations involves economic, political and social features.'

'Personal development is often seen as a key goal for student courses.'

'If we take the development of particular species we can see how cell division has led to greater complexity'.

You can add more and more uses of the term. Is there anything they have in common? The first two uses point to a process that has taken place over time and is presumbaly independent of the people involved. The third use, however, refers to something that is happening to individuals and there is no sense that it will be the same for all individuals. The fourth usage again returns to a notion of something taking place over time.

It is important to note that 'development' takes place over time and in particular ways. It is a histroical process no matter whether it is concerned with groups or individuals. It is often presented as something that is separate from us and something over which we have little control. The unit on globalization is concerned with exploring how 'development' can be used in an ahistorical way but can also be used in a stronger and political manner.

Return to Pages on Development

Return to Opening Page on Globalization