| dc.description | Since this chapter examines a controversy over the label ‘Third World’ it is
appropriate to begin with a definition. In order to identify the subject-matter of
this book, to convey the diversity of the social and economic conditions found
within the Third World, and to provide an outline of the major changes taking
place in Third World countries, an indication of the key characteristics of Third
World status must be given. For the purpose of this survey the Third World will
be defined as a group of countries which have colonial histories and which are
in the process of developing economically and socially from a status characterized
by low incomes, dependence on agriculture, weakness in trading relations,
social deprivation for large segments of society, and restricted political
and civil liberties. This definition acknowledges the process of change and
therefore the likely diversity of countries within the group. | en_US |
