This is a model of economic development that suggests all countries pass through five stages to reach modernity. These stages are traditional society, preconditions for take-off, take-off, drive to maturity, and age of high mass consumption.
Think of Rostow's Stages as a video game progression. You start at level one (traditional society) where you're just learning the basics. As you gain experience and resources (preconditions for take-off), you can move on to level two (take-off). Here things get more complex and challenging but also more rewarding. Level three (drive to maturity) is where your skills are really tested and honed. Finally, in level four (age of high mass consumption), you've mastered the game and can enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Traditional Society: A type of society which is characterized by subsistence agriculture or hunting & gathering; almost wholly a 'primary' sector economy.
Take-Off Stage: The third stage in Rostow's model where rapid growth is generated in a few key sectors like textiles or food production, leading to urbanization and an increase in savings and investment.
Age of High Mass Consumption: The final stage in Rostow's model where consumers shift from necessity goods to luxury goods and services, leading to a higher standard of living.
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