Development: Environment & War
Sociology: AQA A Level, topic 8.3.3
Environmental Issues & Impact of War on Development
Developing nations experience environmental issues, including deforestation, pollution and natural disasters.
Environmental problems
- Some writers suggest that rapidly increasing population sizes in developing countries contributes to the problems they face.
- In some countries, traditional religions have teachings that inhibit the use of contraceptives, thereby contributing to growing population sizes. This includes Catholicism and Islam.
- In some countries, children are seen as an economic asset rather than a burden. This is because they can go out to work and provide an income for the family.
Western impact on the environment
- Some sociologists argue that Western countries are causing or at least contributing to the environmental issues faced by developing nations.
- For example, some countries in Africa use their most fertile land for growing produce for export (e.g. cocoa). The less fertile land is then used to grow crops for their own consumption.
War, conflict & development
- The arms and finance for wars experienced in some developing countries often comes from developed countries.
- For example, the USA has financed groups which have sought to overthrow left-wing governments in countries including Chile and Venezuela.
- Some sociologists suggest that high unemployment in developing nations leads some individuals to seek out militant groups, in an attempt to find a place of ‘belonging’.
Test yourself on Development: Environment & War
What do some sociologists think has led to individuals in developing nations seeking out militant groups?
Common environmental issues experienced by developing nations.