“A Tropical Paradise” 80:20: The Developing World: Episode 1

“A Tropical Paradise” provides an overview of the 80/20 split of global wealth and introduces the concept of developing countries and the origin of the term “third world.” It ends by asking why people in more developed countries should be concerned.

This compact and comprehensive series explores what could be done to improve living conditions in lesser-developed countries. Dr. Rick McDaniel is originally an American who has spent many years in Canada, working in international development with the YMCA. His experience and personable approach make him the perfect guide for this tour through the hidden complexities of foreign aid. The Dominican Republic, on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, is used as a point of reference throughout. It was there that conditions aptly illustrate the 80:20 phenomenon—that 80% of the world’s wealth is controlled by 20% of its population. Global inequality has only continued to worsen since the release of this documentary series in 2006.

Directed by: Gretchen Kelbaugh, Connell Smith
Produced by: Gretchen Kelbaugh, Connell Smith, Rowan Ridge Productions, Story First Productions