Week 3 Discussion: War And Peace - Please Respond To The Fol

Week 3 Discussionwar And Peaceplease Respond To The Followingbased

Discuss substantive ways in which armed conflict can contribute to or distract a developing economy and infrastructure. Analyze specific reasons why developed nations do not experience the same kinds of social upheaval. Note: Consider discussing a country you will use.

Paper For Above instruction

The complex relationship between armed conflict and economic development is a subject of significant scholarly interest and practical concern. In developing countries, armed conflict often plays a paradoxical role—it can both hinder and, in some rare cases, spur economic activities. Understanding this dual nature requires examining the ways conflict disrupts social and economic infrastructures, as well as identifying factors that enable some nations to resist social upheaval despite adversity.

In developing nations, armed conflict typically disrupts the economic and infrastructural frameworks vital for growth. Infrastructure such as transportation networks, energy supply, healthcare systems, and educational institutions often suffer extensive damage during conflicts (Collier & Hoeffler, 2004). For instance, in countries like South Sudan, prolonged civil war has decimated roads, hospitals, and schools, severely impeding economic activity. The destruction hampers the movement of goods and people, increases transaction costs, and deters both local and foreign investments, which are crucial for growth. Moreover, conflicts often divert government resources from development projects to military expenditure, further stymying infrastructure development and economic stability (World Bank, 2013). Additionally, conflict leads to an exodus of skilled labor and productive populations, exacerbating unemployment and poverty levels in affected areas (Collier, 2007).

On the contrary, some argue that in specific contexts, armed conflict can redirect economic resources or stimulate certain sectors. For example, wartime economies often experience increased production in arms and related industries, which can temporarily boost employment and gross domestic product (GDP). However, these gains are usually short-term and accompanied by long-term detrimental effects, including increased debt and economic instability. In developing contexts, the destruction of social infrastructure often outweighs any brief economic upturns attained through conflict.

Developed nations, in contrast, tend not to experience the same levels of social upheaval during crises due to several intrinsic factors. First, their diversified and resilient economic structures buffer against shocks. Advanced financial systems and social safety nets allow these countries to absorb economic disturbances more efficiently (Rodrik, 2018). Second, developed nations possess well-established institutions, rule of law, and political stability, which enable them to manage social unrest more effectively (North, 1990). Third, they benefit from a high level of technological innovation and infrastructure, which facilitates rapid recovery efforts. For instance, during the 2008 financial crisis, countries like Germany and the United States mobilized significant policy responses that mitigated widespread social upheaval.

Moreover, social cohesion and political stability are more prevalent in developed countries, partly due to longstanding social contracts and higher levels of civic engagement. These factors contribute to a shared sense of national identity and purpose, reducing the likelihood of widespread social unrest during economic downturns (Putnam, 1993). Additionally, the presence of social safety nets provides support to vulnerable populations, preventing the drastic disparities that often provoke upheaval in developing nations experiencing conflict or economic instability.

Using the example of Nigeria, a developing country with significant oil resources but persistent conflict and economic challenges, illuminates these dynamics. Nigeria's ongoing conflict in the Niger Delta region, driven by disputes over resource control and environmental degradation, illustrates how armed conflict disrupts local economies, deters investment, and exacerbates poverty. Conversely, its relatively stable urban centers like Lagos showcase the resilience of some sectors driven by strong institutions and economic diversification, yet social upheaval remains prominent in affected regions due to unresolved tensions and infrastructural deficits.

In conclusion, armed conflict severely hampers the development of economies and infrastructure in developing nations through destruction and resource diversion. Developed nations, equipped with resilient institutions, diversified economies, and social safety nets, tend to avoid the severe social upheaval associated with conflict or crisis. Recognizing these differences underscores the importance of fostering institutional stability and social cohesion in promoting sustainable development and peace.

References

• Collier, P., & Hoeffler, A. (2004). Greed and grievances in civil war. Oxford economic papers, 56(4), 563-595.
• Collier, P. (2007). The bottom billion: Why the poorest countries are failing and what can be done about it. Oxford University Press.
• North, D. C. (1990). Institutions, Institutional Change, and Economic Performance. Cambridge University Press.
• Putnam, R. D. (1993). Making Democracy Work: Civic Traditions in Modern Italy. Princeton University Press.
• Rodrik, D. (2018). Straight Talk on Trade: Ideas for a Sane World Economy. Princeton University Press.
• World Bank. (2013). World Development Report 2013: Jobs. World Bank Publications.