December 2021 ~ COSMO Thinker

My model of development is beyond growth but closer to life

SatBhim December 29, 2021

All the development theories such as Modernization Theory, Dependency Theory, World System Theory and Neoliberalism Theory offers unique insights into the intricate dynamics of global progress. However, they have already been proven to be failures. And, I also find it challenging to support the concepts that advocate for the destruction of beautiful villages, green farming fields, and forests in favor of crowded cities. I cannot agree with or support any of the aforementioned theories that solely focus on economic growth. Instead, I have my own alternative theory of development that embraces the values of nature and its preservation, compassion for all living beings, the promotion of village life, and the cultivation of traditional organic farming.

My alternative approach prioritizes sustainable practices in all areas of life, spirituality, and inner peace, along with a simple and connected lifestyle that values contentment, happiness, and the preservation of traditional culture and cultural heritage. Emphasizing eco-friendly architecture, inner development, self-sufficiency through agriculture, and a focus on health, family, love, and if possible vegetarianism. My theory focus on living life fully by surrendering to our Mother Nature; than chasing money, sex and power doing so called "Growth" business. My model envisions a harmonious coexistence with the environment and each other.

In a world where theories advocate for various paths to development, my proposed approach aims to strike a balance between progress and preservation. It is beyond growth but closer to nature and life. By honoring the beauty of nature, nurturing a strong sense of interconnectedness, and cherishing traditional values, we can create a holistic model of development that leads to a more fulfilling and sustainable future.

SatBhim December 28, 2021

Neoliberalism is a capitalist model that seeks to transfer economic control from the public sector to the private sector. The main agenda of neoliberalism is the advocacy for free market policies, allowing prices to be determined by demand and supply. Dambisa Moyo emphasizes that embracing neoliberalism is essential if we aim to accelerate the development of developing countries. According to Dambisa Moyo's perspective, the characteristics of neoliberalism that could serve as a beacon of hope for the development of developing countries include:

1. Liberalization: Free and competitive markets, allowing market forces to function, prices determined by demand and supply, reduced governmental intervention in the economy, low taxes, and subsidies.

2. Privatization: Shifting control of the economy from public to private ownership.

3. Deregulation: Implementing market-friendly regulations, bureaucracy reform, and policy changes.

4. Others: Abandoning Aid, Ceasing reliance on aid, discontinuing the export of raw materials and cheap labor to the West, initiating industrialization, advocating for revolutionary change, and adopting a new democracy-based electoral party system.

Overall, delving into Dambisa Moyo's perspective on Neoliberalism underscores the potential for rapid development in the developing world through market-driven policies. The emphasis on liberalization, privatization, and deregulation aligns with Moyo's call for transformative change. By reorienting economic control and embracing these principles, developing countries could chart a course towards progress and self-sufficiency. Neoliberalism, as advocated by Moyo, presents a dynamic framework that challenges conventional norms and offers a pathway for nations to shape their destinies on their terms. But unfortunately, I cannot totally agree with Moyo, as the so-called liberal democracy itself has proven to be a largely ineffective system in many developing countries.

SatBhim December 27, 2021

Wallerstein's world system theory is a macro-scale approach to world history and social change that highlights the world-system as the primary unit of social analysis. Born after the dependency theory, it seems to be an expanded version of the dependency theory. In other words, this theory also reveals the gap between rich and poor countries. Social scientists often use this theory to explain the reasons for the rise and fall of states, income inequality, social unrest, and imperialism. Mainly, this theory emphasizes the social structure of global inequality.

According to this theory, the world is divided into core, periphery, and semi-periphery. Core countries are dominant capitalist nations that exploit peripheral countries for labor and raw materials. They possess strong military and economic power and are not dependent on other countries. This is why they pay lower prices for raw materials and labor, which demonstrates unequal relations between core and peripheral countries.

1. Core countries: Dominant capitalists, rich, socially and colonially powerful, not dependent on others, exploit peripheral countries. Examples include Germany, USA and England.

2. Semi-periphery countries: In some ways, they share characteristics of both core and peripheral countries. Examples are India, China, and Brazil.

3. Periphery countries: Poor, dependent on core countries for capital, exploited from both sides, lack strong governance, export raw materials to core countries, experience deindustrialization, cheap labor; also known as third-world countries. Examples include Bangladesh, Central Africa, and Afghanistan.

According to factors such as military actions, geographic expansion, and changes in industrial production levels of a country, the country's status in the world system is always changing. For example, the status of semi-peripheral countries may be less stable (changing rapidly according to shifts in the world economy) compared to peripheral countries.

Overall, the exploration of Wallerstein's World System Theory unravels a comprehensive lens through which to analyze global dynamics. This theory's classification of countries into core, periphery, and semi-periphery highlights the intricate web of exploitation and power dynamics that influence international relations. By understanding the ever-shifting statuses of nations within this framework, we gain deeper insights into the complex mechanisms that shape our interconnected world.

SatBhim December 22, 2021

Modernization Theory of Rostow: Modernization is a process of social change that transforms an underdeveloped (pre-modern) society into a developed (modern) society. The study of the stages of development is the theory of modernization, which was written by Rostow. He argues that if developed countries invest in the development of developing countries, then the developing countries will also develop step by step, just like how today's developed countries became developed through stages. There are five stages: traditional society, transitional stage, takeoff, drive to maturity, high mass consumption. The factors of development are capital, investment, technology, industrialization, and universal modern practices, along with education, media, nationalist thought, secularism, social stratification, and good leadership.

Dependency Theory of Rodney: Rodney's dependency theory, a critique of modernization theory, is the study of the process of multidimensional (social, cultural, economic, technical, political, and colonial) dependency of underdeveloped countries on developed countries. According to this theory, the underdeveloped countries (periphery), which are now poor, were not poor before, but now they are poor because they are trapped in the cycle of capitalist exploitation by the first world (core). So, the essence of this theory is that the development and economic prosperity of underdeveloped countries are not possible unless they eliminate their dependency on developed countries. For example, the first world buys labor and raw materials at cheap prices from the third world and sells the products back to the third world at higher prices, but does not invest capital. Due to this exploitation, the first world is getting richer while the third world is getting poorer and more dependent. Therefore, self-reliance and self-production must be promoted.

Similarities:

1. Both theories focus on the gap between developed and underdeveloped countries.

2. Both theories believe in the existence of unequal relations between the global north and the global south.

3. Both theories telling us that developing countries follow western countries.

4. Both theories acknowledge the power of Western countries.

Differences:

1. Modernization theory is based on capitalism and industrialization, while dependency theory is critical on them.

2. Modernization theory focuses on rich/developed countries, while dependency theory focuses on poor/underdeveloped countries.

3. Modernization theory believes that rich countries are the solution to poverty, while dependency theory believes that rich countries are the problem/cause of global poverty.

4. Modernization theory claims that rich countries became wealthy through industrialization, while dependency theory states that rich countries became wealthy through colonialism and exploitation.

5. Modernization theory is a Europe & US-centric model, while dependency theory is based on Africa & Asia.

6. Modernization theory focuses on political and cultural change, while dependency theory emphasizes the restructuring of society and internal systems.

7. Modernization theory highlights systematic/stages of the development process, while dependency theory focuses on a new self-reliance revolution.

8. Modernization theory believes that deindustrialization and lack of technology are the causes of underdevelopment, while dependency theory argues that first-world countries and imperialism are the causes of underdevelopment.

9. Modernization theory supports Aid, while dependency theory is against Aid.

Overall, these two theories, Modernization and Dependency, present contrasting perspectives on the path to development and the underlying causes of underdevelopment. While Modernization Theory focuses on industrialization and stages of progress, Dependency Theory sheds light on the exploitative dynamics between developed and underdeveloped nations. Their differing viewpoints provide valuable insights into the complex global landscape, prompting us to consider a multitude of factors that shape the economic and social disparities between nations.

SatBhim December 21, 2021

On the enchanting morning of 17th December 2021, we did not have any classes at the university as we were already on winter vacation, we embarked on a transformative journey guided by the very words of Nekola Tesla "vacation is when you get a break from all your external affairs; then it is a beautiful opportunity to work on your inner self". Following this wisdom, we embarked on our Jungle Walk Adventure.

It was a trio comprising myself, my dear friend Carlos, and our dear lecturer Ronja. The clock struck 7 am as we set foot on the path that wound from our university's heart, meandering alongside the serene Ihle river. Our destination- the untamed wilderness that awaited us beyond the horizon.

The forest welcomed us with open arms, as the sun's golden rays pierced through the foliage. Our steps carried us forward for a solid half-hour, finally leading us to the quaint Pabsdorf village. But this was just the beginning; our spirits untamed and hearts yearning for more, we ventured further. Our next destination- Rakendorf Village, a place that beckoned us through the very heart of the wild forest.

As Rakendorf unveiled itself before us, a wondrous sight greeted our eyes. The vast expanse was graced by a parade of cows, each grazing and dancing in their own bovine rhythm. A smile lit up our faces as we marveled at this unique spectacle.

Regrettably, we lost ourselves amidst the untamed wilderness beyond Rakendorf, tracing arrows etched into wood, our wanderings brought us to the park adjacent to the university, where our hands worked with wood, crafting objects that would later adorn the garden, each piece infused with the spirit of our adventure. Finally, we was happy that even though we were lost in wilderness, we found solace in the knowledge that we had truly discovered our inner selves.

Our journey was a medley of discoveries - gangs of deer crossing our path, the symphony of diverse birdcalls that painted the air, and the countless herbs that gifted the forest floor with their presence. The harmonious melodies of our songs blended seamlessly with the birds' own music, causing trees and branches to sway and dance in joyful accompaniment. The wind itself seemed to dance, adding its rhythm to our melodies. Whistling playfully, we teased the birds, forging deeper connections with our surroundings. Our footsteps took us in every direction, exploring every corner of the wild forest, until we felt an undeniable bond with nature.

Amidst the wild beauty, a serene stillness enveloped us, guiding us into a meditative state. Our hearts spoke to us, and our souls resonated with the tranquility of the forest. This was our time to connect with our inner selves, to embark on a journey within the depths of our spiritual beings. The symphony of our emotions, the dance of our senses, and the whispers of our hearts blended harmoniously, making us feel alive and renewed.

In the grand tapestry of life, it is the shared passions that weave the most intricate patterns. Our unity, forged through our mutual love for nature and the desire to connect with its essence, is a profound secret that binds us three together. Our footsteps etched memories into the trails, our laughter echoed through the woods, and our spirits danced alongside the trees. We are interwoven with the fabric of these unique phenomena, forever connected to the wild and to each other.

Few more photographs of our beautiful memories: