ADVANCED 20-MARK SERIES – PSIR PAPER I
Q18. “Environmentalism challenges the traditional development model.” Discuss and Evaluate.
🔹 INTRODUCTION
Traditional development models emphasize industrial growth, GDP expansion, and technological progress.
Environmentalism, however, questions unlimited economic growth and highlights ecological sustainability, intergenerational justice, and climate responsibility.
The debate reflects tension between economic expansion and ecological survival.
🔹 I. Traditional Development Paradigm
- Industrialization and modernization
- Urbanization and infrastructure growth
- Market-driven expansion
- Resource extraction for productivity
Development is measured primarily through economic indicators.
🔹 II. Core Principles of Environmentalism
- Sustainable development
- Ecological balance
- Climate justice
- Limits to growth
- Intergenerational equity
Environmentalism emphasizes that economic growth must operate within planetary boundaries.
🔹 III. Points of Conflict
1. Growth vs Sustainability
Traditional models prioritize GDP, while environmentalism questions perpetual growth.
2. Industrialization vs Ecological Protection
Heavy industries contribute to pollution and climate change.
3. Global North vs Global South Debate
Developing countries argue for development rights, while developed nations emphasize emission reduction.
🔹 IV. Green Political Theory
- Deep Ecology
- Eco-socialism
- Green Liberalism
- Environmental Justice
These perspectives propose alternatives to capitalist growth models.
🔹 V. Contemporary Relevance
- Climate change negotiations
- Renewable energy transitions
- Sustainable urban planning
- Corporate environmental accountability
The climate crisis has intensified calls for rethinking development frameworks.
🔹 VI. Evaluation
Environmentalism does not necessarily reject development but seeks to redefine it.
The concept of sustainable development attempts to reconcile growth with ecological responsibility.
The future lies in balancing economic needs with environmental limits.
🔹 CONCLUSION
Environmentalism fundamentally challenges the traditional growth-centric model by exposing ecological costs.
In the 21st century, development must be sustainable, inclusive, and environmentally responsible.
The transformation of development paradigms is no longer optional but necessary for planetary survival.
Shaktimatha Learning – PSIR Advanced Answer Series
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