Which conditions most likely account for extreme poverty and economic disparity in Southeast Asia?

A.
scarcity of natural resources to support farming and industry

B.
lack of interest in trade and commercial partnerships

C.
isolationism that limits exposure to modern technologies

D.
competition among workers for too few jobs and low wages

D is a good answer.

I would probaly say D too

The conditions that most likely account for extreme poverty and economic disparity in Southeast Asia are:

1. Scarcity of natural resources to support farming and industry: This means that the lack of essential resources such as fertile land, clean water, and energy sources can hinder agricultural and industrial growth, leading to reduced productivity and economic development.

2. Isolationism that limits exposure to modern technologies: If a country is isolated and lacks access to the latest technologies, it can lag behind in terms of innovation and productivity. This can result in reduced competitiveness in the global market, leading to economic disparity.

3. Competition among workers for too few jobs and low wages: When there is a high population density coupled with a limited number of job opportunities, intense competition arises among workers. This can lead to lower wages due to oversupply in the labor market, resulting in economic disparities and increased poverty rates.

It is important to note that although these factors contribute to extreme poverty and economic disparities in Southeast Asia, each country's situation may vary, and other factors not mentioned here may also play a role.

To determine which conditions most likely account for extreme poverty and economic disparity in Southeast Asia, we need to evaluate the options provided:

A. Scarcity of natural resources to support farming and industry: This condition can certainly contribute to economic challenges. Lack of resources can limit agricultural productivity and hinder the development of industries, potentially leading to poverty and disparity.

B. Lack of interest in trade and commercial partnerships: While lacking interest in trade and partnerships can limit economic growth, it may not directly be a primary cause of extreme poverty and economic disparity. Other factors would likely have a more significant impact.

C. Isolationism that limits exposure to modern technologies: This condition can play a role in hindering economic progress. Isolationism can restrict access to modern technologies, markets, and innovations, preventing countries from benefiting from international advancements and contributing to economic disparity.

D. Competition among workers for too few jobs and low wages: This condition is a plausible explanation for economic disparity. If there are limited job opportunities and low wages, it can undoubtedly lead to poverty and economic disparities within a society.

Considering the options, it is important to note that there is usually no single answer to complex issues like extreme poverty and economic disparity. Multiple factors may contribute, and their relative importance can vary across countries and regions. However, in the context of Southeast Asia, factors such as scarcity of natural resources, isolationism, and competition for limited job opportunities seem more likely to account for extreme poverty and economic disparity.

To further delve into this topic, it would be valuable to refer to relevant studies, data, and expert opinions from economists and researchers specializing in Southeast Asian economies.