How development theories shape our everyday choices and values

Every day, we face decisions about what to buy, where to work, and what success truly means. But how much of this is truly within our control? Are our aspirations and goals driven by our personal needs, or are we being steered by a larger, unseen force toward a notion of "progress" that we rarely question? 

It's easy to assume that our choices are purely personal, but many of them are shaped by development theories that subtly define what it means to live a "good" life.

To stay competitive, many of us feel compelled to move to bigger cities for "better" opportunities, work longer hours, or upgrade to the newest technology. But why do we measure success by these standards? Modernisation Theory offers some answers. It suggests that progress means leaving behind traditional ways of life in favour of an urbanised, industrialised society where success is defined by wealth, productivity, and endless growth. 

In Bangladesh, the promise of higher incomes and upward mobility is drawing many to urban centres as they expand. But Modernisation Theory challenges us to ask: Is this relentless pursuit of advancement truly the path to happiness?

Think about the drive to work harder, acquire status symbols, or buy the latest gadgets. These impulses aren't spontaneous; they're cultivated by economic and cultural ideologies that equate success with relentless competition and consumption. 

But what if we could recognise these pressures for what they are? What if our lifestyles are as much a product of economic theories as they are of personal preferences? Acknowledging this could lead to more intentional decision-making and a reclaiming of our own definitions of fulfilment.

This concept isn't just theoretical—it seeps into every corner of our lives. The relentless notion of "progress" shows up in the pressure to succeed, the fear of falling behind, and the endless to-do lists. But what's the real cost of this constant push forward? How often do you stop chasing the next big goal to ask yourself, "Is this what I truly want?"

Modernisation Theory gives us the tools to question these ambitions. Are they genuinely ours, or are they shaped by the path society has laid out for us? Reclaiming our sense of achievement might mean choosing a slower, more balanced life—one that values fulfilment and well-being over perpetual advancement. 

What if "progress" meant prioritising happiness, connection, and personal growth? By understanding these forces, we can redefine success in ways that truly resonate with us.

Now, think about your own shopping habits: the thrill of ordering the latest gadget or a cheap pair of jeans online, often with just a click, and having them delivered straight to your door. It's convenient, quick, and seems harmless. But have you ever considered the hidden costs behind these "bargains"? Dependency Theory offers some insight. 

It argues that wealthier nations sustain their prosperity by exploiting the labour and resources of less-developed countries, perpetuating a cycle of dependency that keeps many regions trapped in poverty.

This cycle is particularly relevant to Bangladesh, a key player in the global garment industry. While low-cost products benefit many of us, they often come at the expense of workers in developing countries who endure unsafe working conditions and wages that barely cover their basic needs. 

Our purchases might feel empowering, but every discounted item we buy is frequently tied to the low wages, poor working conditions, and environmental harm faced by others. It's easy to turn a blind eye, but Dependency Theory urges us to see the bigger picture—a global system where our consumer choices are deeply intertwined with perpetuating inequality.

Choosing fair-trade products or simply being more mindful about where and how we shop isn't just a feel-good decision; it's a step toward breaking this cycle. What if we all considered the true costs of cheap goods—not just the price tag, but the labour, environmental, and human rights costs behind them? By shifting our consumption habits, even slightly, our everyday choices can become a force for justice and equity.

Development theories also shape our values within the education system. For many, education is no longer seen as a path to intellectual curiosity or personal growth but as a tool for securing social status and financial stability. The mantra "Get a degree, get a good job, and you'll be set for life" has become widespread. 

Human Development Theory challenges this narrow view, arguing that true progress lies in enhancing health, education, personal empowerment, and overall quality of life—not just in accumulating economic wealth.

In Bangladesh, where higher education is often seen as a ladder to social mobility, the pressure to pursue degrees and careers solely for financial gain is particularly intense. But Human Development Theory reminds us that fulfilment, happiness, and community are equally—if not more—important. 

Consider the pressure to choose careers that promise high salaries but leave little room for passion, creativity, or time with family. Today, many students base their career decisions primarily on earning potential rather than on what truly inspires them.

Imagine a society where success is measured not by wealth or status, but by our ability to nurture creativity, our impact on others, and the joy we find in learning and growing. This shift in perspective would encourage us to seek a deeper, more balanced life—one where material success doesn't overshadow everything else. Embracing Human Development Theory reminds us that a fulfilling life is about more than just financial achievement.

These theories—Human Development, Dependency, and Modernisation—might seem abstract, but they shape our everyday understanding of success, fulfilment, and progress. By recognising how deeply these ideas influence our choices, we can start making decisions that align with our values rather than simply following societal pressures. 

What if we chose to live lives that prioritise sustainability, connection, and well-being over the endless pursuit of external markers of success?

Picture a society where "progress" isn't defined by the latest gadget or a high-status job, but by living in a way that reflects our true goals of happiness, balance, and personal growth. We have the power to redefine success on our own terms by making intentional choices that prioritise what truly matters. 

The next time we feel the urge to chase more—whether it's more possessions, more prestige, or more productivity—let's pause and ask, "What do I really need to feel fulfilled?" 

While growth shapes the world around us, we hold the power to define success in a way that aligns with our deepest values—values that celebrate community, mindfulness, and the richness of life itself.

Sketch: TBS

Zaziratul Zannat is a development practitioner currently working with an international organisation based in South Asia. 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.