Rostow’s development Theory

First Stage. The Traditional Society- This term defines a country that has not yet started a process of development. A traditional society contains a very high percentage of people involved in agriculture.

2 nd Stage The Preconditions for Takeoff- The process of development begins when an elite group initiates innovative economic activities. Examples: invest in new technology, water supplies, and transportation systems. These projects will stimulate an increase in productivity

Third Stage The Takeoff- Rapid growth is generated in a limited number of economic activities Ex: food products. These few takeoff industries achieve technical advances and become more productive.

Fourth Stage The Drive to Maturity- Modern technology diffuses to a wide variety of industries which then experience rapid growth comparable to the takeoff industries. The workers become more skilled and specialized.

Fifth Stage The Age of Mass Consumption- The economy shifts from production of heavy industry such as steel and energy, to consumer goods Examples : motor vehicles and refrigerators.

Rostow’s Role of MDC’s Role of High-income countries High income countries help low income counties Ex: food aid, education facilities, clean water, housing, MONEY

Immanuel Wallerstein