You know, Alaska has not had the status of 3rd world until recently. It has had the status of 4th world. When GIS was getting started, I contacted all the digital mapping agencies and companies to get a map of Alaska suitable for GIS. Although they had digital maps for every 3rd world country, they didn't have that for Alaska. Alaska was 4th world. Since then, Alaska has brought itself up by the bootstraps to 3rd world status by creating its own digital map, especially in the Dept of Forestry.
I am familiar with the sordid history of Alaska and the general freeze of its resources from the day resources were discovered. There are Outside interests that don't want Alaska to be developed, of which a couple are posting on this thread. Except oil, of course. That resource is so hot they will develop it wherever it is found.
You make a very good point. Your example is compelling and I agree with your premise.