There are various theories of development. These theories focus on the environment as the major factor in the development of the country. The theories are geographical determinism, biological determinism, and modernization theory.

• Geographical determinism 

This approach proposes that the development of a society or country is directly influenced by the geographical location of it, characteristics such as the climate can determine its success economically.

• Biological determinism 

In this approach, the development of a society is dependent on the successful species. The continuous development of a society is theorized to take place as the process of Darwinian evolution.  Meaning the success of people in a society is directly linked to their predecessors. 

• Modernization theory

This theory states that underdeveloped countries exist because they need to catch up to developed countries. It says that underdeveloped countries need to let go of their traditional ways and follow a westernized way to succeed. Developed countries are seen as models of success due to the technological advances they have. 

• Application of the theories to South African context

South Africa is in Southern Africa meaning the climate would be perfect for agricultural activities producing a variety of crops. And according to geographical determinism, this would lead to the country being highly favorable to be highly developed. To keep the agricultural activities running there would be a need for skilled people to run the farms favoring biological determinism.