Development & Sustainability: Vocabulary List Textbook Pages: 179-266 (glo - po)

Development

Improvements in quality of life, including economic conditions, social well-being, political systems, and access to resources.

Political development

The strengthening of political systems through stability, accountability, reduced corruption, and effective governance.

Social/human development

Improving people's well-being through better health, education, equality, empowerment, and living standards.

Institutional development

The improvement of organizations and systems, such as governments and financial institutions, that support development.

Economic development

Growth and change in an economy that increase income, productivity, employment, and access to goods and services.

Sustainability

Meeting present needs while protecting the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Environmental sustainability

Protecting ecosystems and managing natural resources in ways that prevent long-term environmental damage.

Social sustainability

Maintaining social well-being through equality, social cohesion, access to services, and human rights.

Economic sustainability

Maintaining economic growth and stability without causing long-term social or environmental harm.

Poverty

A condition in which people lack the income and resources needed to meet basic living needs.

Absolute poverty

Living below a fixed minimum standard required for basic survival, such as food, shelter, and essential services.

Relative poverty

Poverty defined in comparison to the average standard of living within a society.

Poverty trap

A situation in which a lack of resources prevents people from improving their economic conditions.

Inequality

Uneven distribution of wealth, opportunities, and power within or between societies.

Economic inequality

Unequal access to income, wealth, employment, and economic opportunities.

Political inequality

Unequal influence or power in political decision-making among groups or individuals.

Social inequality

Unequal access to education, health care, rights, and social opportunities.

Power asymmetries

Imbalances of power between individuals, groups, or countries that shape development outcomes.