We live in a society where people's ascribed characteristics ...

[Metfan725]

We live in a society where people's ascribed characteristics (race, class, sex) are the best determinants of where people will end up, and a society in which we believe anyone can make it if he or she works hard enough. These contrasts illustrate the ____
 
  Fill in the blank with correct word

Question 2

Is increased social inequality an inevitable consequence of technological change? Must the current Least Industrialized Nations remain in a perpetual pauper status in relation to the Most Industrialized Nations? Explain why or why not.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

[kescobar@64]

Answer to Question 1

both/and

Answer to Question 2

Continuing advances in technology may change the role of the Least Industrialized Nations in relation to the rest of the world. The Least Industrialized Nations have always been sources of raw materials, and in recent decades, of cheap labor. Perhaps technological change will diminish the value of these raw materials (including oil) and cheap labor. If and when the interest of the Most Industrialized Nations is no longer focused on the Least Industrialized Nations as mere sources of raw materials and cheap labor, the relationship among nations could become less exploitative.