Rostow's Development Model - Stages 1-5

Stage 4 - The drive to maturity

Modern technology, previously confined to a few takeoff industries, diffuses to a wide variety of industries, which then experience rapid growth comparable to the takeoff industries. Workers become more skilled and specialized.

Stage 3 - The takeoff

Rapid Growth is generated in a limited number of economic activities, such as textiles or food products. These few takeoff industries achieve technical advances and become productive, whereas other sectors of the economy remain dominated by traditional practices.

Rostow's Development Model

Suggested that countries passed through five stages of economic development.

Stage 1 - The Traditional Society

Defines a country that has not yet started a process of development. A traditional society contains a very high percentage of people engaged in agriculture and a high percentage of national wealth allocated to what Rostow called "nonproductive" activities, such as military and religion.

Stage 5 - The age of mass consumption

The economy shifts from production of heavy industry, such as steel and energy, to consumer goods, such as motor vehicles and refrigerators.

Stage 2 - The Preconditions for takeoff

the process of development begins when an elite group initiates innovative economic activities. under the influence of these well-educated leaders, the country starts to invest in new technology and infrastructure, such as water supplies and transportation systems. these projects will ultimately stimulate an increase in productivity.