developmentalism
|de-vel-op-men-tal-ism|
/dɪˌvɛləpˈmɛntlɪzəm/
emphasis on development (often state-led)
Etymology
'developmentalism' originates from English, specifically the word 'developmental' combined with the suffix '-ism', where 'developmental' comes from 'development' and the suffix '-ism' denotes a 'doctrine' or 'system'.
'developmentalism' was formed in the 20th century from the adjective 'developmental' (which arose in the mid-19th century from 'development'); the root 'development' ultimately derives from Old French 'desveloper' (earlier sense 'to unfold'). The modern compound gained currency after World War II to describe state-led economic policies.
Initially, the root 'development' referred to unfolding or gradual growth; over time it came to signify economic and social progress, and 'developmentalism' evolved to mean an ideology or policy prioritizing that progress.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a political-economic doctrine or set of policies that prioritize rapid economic development, often advocating state-led industrialization, planning, protectionism, and intervention to promote domestic growth (associated with 'developmental state' strategies).
Developmentalism shaped the economic strategies of many postwar governments seeking rapid industrialization.
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Noun 2
a worldview or belief that regards social and economic 'development' (modernization, growth) as the primary goal and measure of success for societies and policies.
Critics of developmentalism argue that an exclusive focus on growth can ignore social equity and environmental costs.
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Last updated: 2025/11/27 18:24