The Causes of Progress

In this controversial analysis, Todd argues that variations in development in countries throughout the world are determined by family structure. He considers both economic and cultural development and shows how increased rates of literacy - which Todd views as the essential indicator of cultural progress - can be associated with certain types of family forms. Todd examines literacy and its social consequences with respect to political, demographic and economic modernity. He applies his anthropological model to European, Soviet, and Third World societies, and looks ahead to the future progress of Islamic, North Indian and African nations. The book is a successor to Todd's earlier work, "The Explanation of Ideology". Together the two provide a general presentation of a new historical model.