Question

Which of the following ideas does the concept of 'Sustainability' in Human Development refer to ?
(A). Continuity in the availability of opportunities.
(B). Each future generation must have higher opportunities (At least double) than their previous generation.
(C). All environmental, financial and human resources must be used keeping in mind the future
(D). Each generation must ensure the availability of choices and opportunities to its future generations.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• B. (A), (C) and (D) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

The key idea behind sustainability is "equity over time" or "inter-generational equity." Any statement that reflects the idea of not harming the future for the benefit of the present is likely correct. Be wary of statements that set extreme or specific quantitative targets (like "doubling"), as sustainability is more of a qualitative principle.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The concept of sustainability, particularly in the context of human development, refers to meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It is about inter-generational equity.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- (A) Continuity in the availability of opportunities: This is a core tenet of sustainability. It means that the opportunities for a good life available to the current generation should not diminish for future generations. This statement is correct.
- (B) Each future generation must have higher opportunities (At least double)...: This is an incorrect interpretation. Sustainability is about ensuring non-declining opportunities. While development aims for growth, sustainability itself does not mandate a specific rate of increase like "doubling." It is about maintaining at least the same level of opportunities. This statement is incorrect.
- (C) All environmental, financial and human resources must be used keeping in mind the future: This statement accurately reflects the principle of prudent resource management inherent in sustainability. It implies that current consumption should not deplete the capital stock (natural, financial, human) available for the future. This statement is correct.
- (D) Each generation must ensure the availability of choices and opportunities to its future generations: This is another way of expressing the core idea of inter-generational equity, similar to statement (A). It is a fundamental aspect of sustainability. This statement is correct.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The ideas correctly representing sustainability are (A), (C), and (D).