Whenever we read about the conditions of the South, the East, or the Third World, the literature is filled with depressing statistics and figures on infant mortality rates, levels of inequality, starvation, corruption, and so on. And indeed the South is suffering tragically and undeservingly every day. However, for those who are fighting for a better world I thought it would be nice to read some information on some positive changes. According to Wiarda, over the past 40 years "Per-Capita income in the developing world have nearly quadrupled between 1960 and 2000, going from approximately $300 per person per year in 1960 to nearlyy $1,200 today. Life expectancy has risen from forty-six to seventy-three years, while infant mortality has dropped from 150 per one thousand births to about fifty. Primary school enrollments are the highest they have ever been in the developing world, and literacy rates worldwide have jumped from 25 percent to over 50 percent. World food production has risen dramatically; populous Chine and India, both of which faced mass starvation in the 1970's, have seen food quadruple and have become self-sufficient in foodstuffs" (2004, 162-163)
Of course, development is far more complex and far more diverse then the general indicators mentioned by Wiarda, and the need for dedication to development by all the world is still an enormous issue. However, what can be said of Wiarda's findings is this; Development workers are slowly making progress in this difficult battle. While much stills needs to be, much has also already been achieved and development workers of any form should hold their head high, be proud, and keep pushing to create a better world!
