Why are measures of socio-economic development, such as GDP, not enough to show every side of development?
How to lay out the answer. Follow the frame, then write it in your own words.
1 · Define it. Socio-economic development means better lives through improved education, incomes, skills and jobs, measured by GDP and similar indicators.
2 · GDP misses a lot. GDP leaves out leisure, environmental quality, freedom, social justice and gender equality.
3 · Averages hide inequality. Per capita income is an average and does not show whether income is equally shared.
4 · The disadvantaged may be left out. These measures do not show whether development reaches the disadvantaged groups.
5 · Close in one line. That is why the wider idea of human development is now used.
Scoring tip: Name at least two things GDP leaves out. The examiner looks for them by name.
