The paper outlines both some of the general principles and some of the specific requirements of sustainable development. The concept has been broadly accepted, but the implications of the tripartite theoretical restructuring are more farreaching than may be apparent. Development theory has always been normative as well as positive in its analytical vision. Today we require a new normative vision drawing on strong but neglected traditions in economics, political and social theory and combining traditional wisdom with modern technology. The concept of sustainability is discussed from economic, ecological, and social perspectives. These perspectives are then synthesized and related to issues such as agriculture and energy.
