Chapter 9 : Global Inequality

1. Your text mentions that East Asian countries-Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore-have experienced sharp growth in their economies in recent years. Briefly review the factors that explain this spectacular economic growth. Is there anything that might be applicable for the enhancement of economic development? Can the knowledge about the keys to successful economic development that was gained in this region of the world be applied in other less developed low-income countries where progress economic growth has been proceeding more slowly?

2. Concisely review the four theories offered by your text explaining why there are gaps between nations' economic developments and resulting global inequality: market-oriented theory, dependency theory, world-system theory, and state-centered theories. Briefly discuss the distinctive characteristics of each theory and how each differs from the others. Which theory do you feel offers the most explanatory power to addressing economic developmental gaps?

3. Education is often mentioned as an indispensable component for advancing economic development in less industrialized countries. Explain why it is so important for facilitating development.

4. Your text claims that global economic inequality has personal relevance and importance to people in advanced , affluent economies. Briefly review this argument. Explain carefully whether you were persuaded by it or not.

5. Frances Moore Lappe argues that certain features of the global economy can be injurious to the economic well-being of people in less developed countries, even with their new opportunities to sell things. She suggests when Colombian peasants sell orchids, roses, and carnations (which eventually end up in U.S., German, and Japanese flower shops and supermarkets), they do so at great expense, losing the opportunity to grow food on their lands, such as potatoes, corn, and tomatoes. Review some of the other ways--discussed in this chapter-in which serving the economic needs of people in advanced industrialized societies may harm people in less developed societies.

6. Having read about life in low-income countries, in what ways would your life have been different if you had been born in one of these countries? Consider not only what your experiences and opportunities would have been like over the years you were growing up but also what your future would look like.

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