Why do different persons have different notions of development? Which of the following explanations is more important and why? (a) Because people are different. (b) Because life situations of persons are different.
Different persons have different notions of development because they have different aspirations and desires. Each person seeks different things that are most important for them to fulfill their specific goals. The text highlights that developmental goals are not only about better income but also about other important things in life.
Explanation (b) 'Because life situations of persons are different' is more important. The text indicates that people seek things that are 'most important for them,' which implies that their priorities depend on their specific needs and circumstances. Since the criterion for progress depends on the purpose of comparison, and people have different backgrounds, their life situations largely determine what they consider as development.
Explanation
The textbook context emphasizes that individuals seek different things based on what is most important to them to fulfill their aspirations. While people do differ in attributes like talents and interests, the more critical factor for differing development goals is their life situation. The text notes that goals are not just about income but 'other important things,' suggesting that a person's specific context (or life situation) dictates what they value (e.g., a job vs. higher education). Therefore, explanation (b) is considered more important as it drives the diversity in aspirations.