So, What Exactly is Going On With All the Other Third World Countries?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the lack of attention given to the rest of the world outside of the Middle East, including Africa, Mongolia, South America, Greece, and Portugal. The speaker also mentions the exploitation and general disinterest towards these countries. Additionally, they touch on scientific and technological developments happening in these regions, as well as the correlation between illiteracy, poverty, and superstition.
  • #1
Carlos Hernandez
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All of our attention is focused on the Middle East, what about the rest of the world? There are some 30 or so nations in Africa, what's going on there? Does anyone even know that a country called "Mongolia" exists directly north of China, what is going on there? What about all the countries in South America? What about Greece and Portugal? Is there anything interesting enough to even mention in all these third world countries? Any interesting scientific or technological discoveries? Any interesting political or cultural practices? And interesting paranormality incidences?

Carlos Hernandez
 
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  • #2
Well, the news I read in my newspaper ('newspaper', those free papers they issue in public transportation, eg 'Metro') comes from everywhere and nowhere.

Anything interesting? Not sure.. good topic though.
 
  • #3
Every news story I see about Africa these days is about Mugabe, or Aids, or Nigeria, where the ex-president of Liberia has taken refuge and where it is suspected the US has issued a contract on him.
 
  • #4
The rest of the world? Well, we blame them in a general way for all our troubles, exploit the crap out of them, smile for the cameras over trifling amounts of aid we offer, but otherwise don't care - until they bomb us or something, anyways.

Interesting science? Global aids-vaccine research has been concentrating on Africa for some time now. Research in South America is going into potential feedback effects on the greenhouse effect. Research at the world's rainforests to discover new drugs from old herbal remedies. Science doesn't give much of a damn about borders, though the lack of education in some areas is a great problem.

The centres of illiteracy and poverty in the world correlate in some ways with centres of superstition.
 

1. What are "Third World Countries"?

"Third World Countries" is a term that was used during the Cold War to refer to countries that were not aligned with either the capitalist or communist blocs. These countries were often characterized by underdevelopment, poverty, and political instability.

2. How many Third World Countries are there?

There is no definitive list of Third World Countries as the term is no longer used in the same way it was during the Cold War. Additionally, countries can move in and out of this category depending on their economic and political developments. However, according to the United Nations, there are currently 47 Least Developed Countries (LDCs) that are considered to be among the poorest and most vulnerable nations in the world.

3. What factors contribute to the poverty and underdevelopment in Third World Countries?

There are many factors that contribute to the poverty and underdevelopment in Third World Countries. These include historical colonialism and exploitation, political instability, corruption, lack of access to education and healthcare, and unequal distribution of resources. These countries also often face natural disasters, climate change, and economic crises which further hinder their development.

4. Can anything be done to improve the situation in Third World Countries?

Yes, there are many efforts being made to improve the situation in Third World Countries. This includes foreign aid and development assistance from wealthier countries, initiatives from international organizations such as the United Nations and World Bank, and efforts by non-governmental organizations and charities. Additionally, promoting fair trade and sustainable development practices can also help to improve the situation in these countries.

5. Are all Third World Countries the same?

No, not all Third World Countries are the same. Each country has its own unique history, culture, and challenges that contribute to its current situation. It is important to recognize the diversity among these countries and not generalize or stereotype them. Additionally, some Third World Countries have made significant progress in terms of economic development and poverty reduction, while others continue to face ongoing challenges.

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