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: Concept Definition:
Sustainability, in the context of human development, means meeting current needs without jeopardizing future generations' ability to meet their own. It is based on inter-generational equity.
Step 2: Detailed Analysis:
- (A) Continuous Opportunity Availability: This is a fundamental principle of sustainability, ensuring that the opportunities for a good life available now are not reduced for future generations. This statement is correct.
- (B) Doubling Future Opportunities: This is an incorrect interpretation. Sustainability requires non-declining opportunities, not necessarily a specific growth rate like doubling. It ensures opportunities are maintained or improved. This statement is incorrect.
- (C) Future-Oriented Resource Use: This statement accurately reflects sustainable resource management, emphasizing that current use of environmental, financial, and human resources must consider future availability. This statement is correct.
- (D) Ensuring Future Choices and Opportunities: This rephrases the core concept of inter-generational equity, similar to (A), and is a key aspect of sustainability. This statement is correct.
Step 3: Conclusion:
Statements (A), (C), and (D) accurately represent the concept of sustainability.