1. The Three World Model
World Issues 120

2. An issue – an explanation
An important subject open to discussion or debate that usually has:
Complex causes
Inter-related environmental, social, political and economic factors
People with different points of view
Complex, imperfect solutions
Global implications
Example: Alberta Oil Sands & the Energy East Pipeline

3. Perspective/Values
Your perspective on an issue is going to be influenced by your values and ethics. How?
Imagine: you are in a position to save either a vial with the cure for cancer or your brother. Which do you choose? Why?

4. The Three World Model Have you heard the term “third world”?
What do you think of the when you hear it?
What about the term “first world”?
“second world”?
Originally, the world was divided into 3 sections during the Cold War.

5. Three World Model

6. The First World
1st World countries were those associated with the United States and her Allies during the Cold War.
These included Canada, Western European countries, and others.
1st World countries are defined as those with high standards of living including:
High life expectancy
High literacy rate (education)
High average income

7. The Second World
The 2nd World consisted of the Soviet Union and her communist allies during the Cold War.
These included China, Eastern Europe, North Korea, and others.

8. The Third World
The 3rd World were countries that were not allied with either of the super- powers during the Cold War.
These included African & South American countries, as well as others.
3rd World countries are defined as those with very low standards of living including:
Low life expectancy
Low literacy rate (education)
Low average income

9. The Fourth World Model
Since the end of the Cold War, the 2nd world has basically ceased to exist.
People began using the terms 1st World and 3rd World refer to economic status.
The term 4th world is often used to refer to a sub-population of people living in 1st world countries but in 3rd world conditions.
They are often native/indigenous people