Vol. 3 No. 3 (2013): Development

It is with pleasure that I welcome you to Leviathan’s last instalment of the 2012-13 academic year. For three years now, Leviathan has drawn on the work of students and staff alike to discuss, debate, and analyse the myriad political and cultural issues pervading current events. Leviathan strives to offer rich political material from a wide spectrum of viewpoints, presenting unique frameworks for our content as we explore a variety of themes. The theme for this issue is Development.

The Development issue aims to address some of the most signi cant social and political challenges relevant today—our writers tackle a range of topics including gender, sustainability, healthcare, military aid, the economics of happiness, Scotland’s independence, Indonesia’s rise, China’s risks, and more.

As a society, we pursue development in a variety of forms. Wealthy nations thrive on technological advancement, but how much of it helps those countries less fortunate? International summits and billions of dollars are committed to reversing the tide of environmental degradation and climate change, whilst powerful interests and the engines of consumerism stand as erce obstacles. Western countries that once led innovation are now mired in recessions and failing education systems. All eyes are on Asia, whose booming population and markets are shifting global power dynamics. Meanwhile, sectarian violence and terrorism threaten democracy and human rights across several continents. Governments appear more and more out of touch with their constituents. What kind of aid truly fosters empowerment? Is the road to progress paved by large organizations and governments, or by small grassroots and non-pro t movements? How can such a diverse range of entities collaborate to effectively create more prosperous communities around the world? What is our generation’s role in this process? What are the threats to development... and is it always a desirable thing?

It is with pride and gratitude that I thank my team and all of the writers and artists who dedicated their time and work to this issue, and every issue under my editorship. As I pass the mantle on to the next Leviathan editor, Maxwell Greenberg, I wish him and his team the very best of luck. The Edinburgh University Politics and IR Society—the journal’s founder and winner of the 2013 EUSA Global Award—has been indispensable to Leviathan through its constant support and academic contributions. Finally, our success would not be possible without the generous help and guidance of the University’s Politics and IR department, who continue to lead the way in exceptional scholarship and teaching.

As always, we encourage you to read, ponder, and critique relentlessly. Our hope is that Leviathan not only challenges you to think differently, but also inspires you to add your voice to the debate. We await your feedback and look forward to your future involvement. Stay updated by following our brand new Twitter page @LeviathanEdUni, and we welcome your questions and comments at leviathanjournal@gmail.com.

Cheers, and enjoy.

Natasha Turak, 

Editor in Chief