According to Rostow's model of development, what occurs in the first stage?

In the context of Rostow's model of economic development, the first stage is characterized by a focus on subsistence farming. This stage, known as the "traditional society," illustrates an economy that is primarily agrarian and relies heavily on manual labor and the use of simple tools. In this phase, the majority of the population is engaged in agriculture, producing just enough food to support themselves and their families rather than generating surplus for trade or market exchange.

The distinguishing feature of the first stage is the limited technological advancement, which confines productivity and economic growth. Societies in this stage often have low levels of capital and limited interaction with the outside world, which means that economic activity is primarily localized and self-sufficient.

Understanding this foundational aspect of Rostow’s model is crucial, as it sets the stage for the subsequent phases of development, which involve increasing industrialization, the rise of trade, and movements toward more complex economic structures. The transition from subsistence farming to more developed economic activities marks the progression to the next stages of the model.