This paper uses a cultural ecology of development approach to critique existing models of development. The critique identifies existing models as running counter to ecological and biological imperatives, placing an over-emphasis on growth as the solution to development, and resulting in considerable cultural wastage. An argument is made that many of the attempts to construct an alternative development paradigm can be grouped within the cultural ecology of development approach. Ten precepts that will enhance the long-term survivability of the earth are (...) proposed. The final portion of the paper looks at how compatible current trends in thinking about development are with these ten precepts and assesses the prospects for adoption of these precepts in an alternative development paradigm. (shrink)

The development of civilization implies an evolution of complex trust mechanisms which integrate the social system and form bonds which allow individuals to interact, even if they are strangers. Key elements of trust are predictability of consequences and an evaluation of consequences in terms of self-interest or values. Values, ethics, and norms enhance predictability. The terrorist introduces an unpredictable event which has negative consequences, thus destroying trust. However, terrorist-like situations occur in day-to-day activities. Technology itself makes the world more interdependent (...) and less predictable. Furthermore, technological accidents and disasters, which are also unpredictable and negative, may prompt individuals to perceive technology as if it were a terrorist. (shrink)