The present process of «tertiarization»: theses and doubts

Abstract

The increasing «tertiarization» of the developing countries is a most outstanding characteristic of our days. Apparently incontrovertible, this statement is nevertheless paradoxical: how is it possible that one of the fundamental processes for both the characterization and the progress and modernization of contemporary societies lies on a concept of tertiary which is residually)defined, especially when this concept comprises so many heterogeneous activities? Is it possible that the «rest» is abandoning its traditional, subaltern role and taking the leading part in the explanation of the modelling mechanisms of modern societies? If so, what is the meaning and the genesis of this change?