How did countries like Japan become developed and rich despite having limited natural resources?
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They imported natural resources from other countries
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They invested heavily in the education and health of their people
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They exploited the natural resources of other countries
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They focused on non-market activities for self-consumption
Answer:
Answer by Student
So, the correct answer is (B) They invested heavily in the education and health of their people .
Detailed Answer by Teachoo
Let’s check all the options
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Option (A) They imported natural resources from other countries
- This is partly true, but not the main reason for their development and richness. Japan did import natural resources such as oil, coal, iron ore, and food from other countries to meet its domestic needs. However, this also made it dependent on external factors and vulnerable to fluctuations in prices and supply. So, this is
incorrect
. ❌
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Option (B) They invested heavily in the education and health of their people
- This is the main reason for their development and richness. Japan realized that its human resource was its most valuable asset and invested heavily in improving the quality of its population. It provided universal and compulsory education, health care, and social security to its people. It also encouraged research and innovation, skill development, and lifelong learning among its people. As a result, Japan created a highly educated, healthy, productive, and creative human capital that contributed to its economic growth and social welfare. So, this is
correct
.✅
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Option (C) They exploited the natural resources of other countries
- This is false and irrelevant for their development and richness. Japan did not exploit the natural resources of other countries, but rather respected the sovereignty and rights of other nations. Japan followed a peaceful and cooperative foreign policy that aimed at promoting mutual understanding and cooperation with other countries. It also contributed to the global efforts for environmental protection and sustainable development. So, this is
incorrect
.❌
- Option (D) They focused on non-market activities for self-consumption - This is false and irrelevant for their development and richness. Japan did not focus on non-market activities for self-consumption, but rather on market activities for export-oriented growth. Japan pursued an export-led growth strategy that aimed at increasing its share in the world trade by producing high-quality and competitive goods and services. It also diversified its export markets and products to reduce its dependence on any single market or product. So, this is incorrect .❌
Thus, option (B): They invested heavily in the education and health of their people is correct .
