A 'developed' society has a number of key characteristics which are either not present in a developing society or are still in their infancy. These include:
- Free and Fair elections and a strong democratic process
- Freedom of Speech and a fair and open media
- Equal human rights for all citizens regardless of their faith, gender, caster or creed
- A sophisticated education system that provides basic education for all citizens
- A post-agrarian society where urbanization has taken place and most people do not rely on primary agriculture for a living
- A middle or high income society where the basic needs of food, shelter, clothing and security are available to most citizens.