The Paradox of Catching Up: Why Being Behind Can Be a Blessing for Emerging Markets The idea that being backward can be beneficial may seem counterintuitive.
However, it's an argument made by some of the most astute observers of economic development, including Leon Trotsky, who posited that "backward" countries have a unique advantage in catching up with their more advanced peers.
At first glance, this notion seems absurd – what could possibly be beneficial about being behind? But upon closer examination, it becomes clear that Trotsky's argument has merit.