The question of the economic viability of the less developed countries of the Caribbean is discussed in the perspective of the author's conception of development. The analyzis of ten factor that in his opinion characterize a developed society gives grounds to conclude that the question about the economic viability is a non-issue; the small Caribbean countries can develop, if to be developed means be able to improve the quality of life of the population and the promotion of soung group relations. The implications of these conclusions for a suitable development strategy are discussed emphasizing international trade and the selective development of export industries. The author argues that so defined, the development problem faced by small countries is not essentially different from the problems faced by large underdeveloped countries, though small countries have to face it with less human, material and capital resources.