This report assesses the changes in language use, based on political and cultural uses, around the world and specifically in Thailand. Early global theories divided the nations of the world into central, semiperipheral, and peripheral. Later, this classification was changed to developed nations, developing nations, and the Third World. Then came North versus South. Many nations of Southeast Asia embarked upon ambitious programs to reach the supposed completed level of achievement of the Northern, developed countries. Sustainable development has become a paramount philosophy in the West, while this concept is still in its infancy in Southeast Asia, especially where material goods are still highly desired. The social structures and cultural values that caused the North to change its definition of development and how this change impacts on Southeast Asia today, especially on Thailand, are reviewed. The language of development for sociologists, economists, and the common person are discussed in terms of culture and cultural language. (Contains nine references.) (NAV)