Why should developing countries worry about 2050 and beyond?

This paper analyses the inter-generational bargain in terms of how people seek to invest for the wellbeing of future generations, relating the inter-generational bargain to the concept of sustainable development. We consider aspects of wellbeing that are not marketed, such as environmental and social goods, as well as consumption goods. The paper begins by considering how people might form targets for the quality of life of their children and grandchildren. We then consider to what extent individuals can effect their desires for their descendants and how, for some factors, government action can be necessary.<P>The paper argues that developing country governments ought to be concerned about long-term issues for the democratic reason that their citizens are concerned about the wellbeing of their immediate descendants. Certain aspects of sustainable development cannot be dealt with at the individual or the community level; these require government or in some cases international action. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.