Modernization Theory and Early Dependency Theory - Research Paper Example

Modernization theory is a theory that seeks to explain ways in which a society reacts to progress (Harrison & Dye 365). The theory dates back to Aristotle when he stated that countries, just like plants, undergo natural growth patterns. The theory focuses mainly on how technological advancements enhance social progress in different countries, particularly in the world. However, this theory has since been modified in now it looks at technological advancements’ contribution to the creation of a more homogenized world.

In this regard, the modified theory of modernization encompasses the globalization being experienced all over the world that has contributed to the spread of cultural civilization. This has resulted in a universal culture used as a baseline for all cultures. In fact, some modernization theorists now claim that as technology continues to advance, different cultures will soon become like one another. According to modernization theory, less developed countries will soon catch up with developed countries in terms of development due to globalization and technological advancements (Harrison & Dye 365).

In addition, the modernization theory of the present day critically analyzes globalization in terms of its negative consequences. For instance, some theorists have pointed that globalization is creating greater disparity between the impoverished and the wealthy, with many people being left under starvation and homelessness. According to modernization theory, as societies continue to modernize, they abandon their old lifestyles in favor of modern industrial and technological lifestyle, making them lose their capacity to feed themselves, thereby putting them at risk of starvation in the event of an economic downturn (Harrison & Dye 366).

Why modifications were needed The modification of modernization theory was needed in order to explain the impacts of globalization and factors that have caused the disparity between developed and underdeveloped countries. According to the modified theory of modernization, the globalization is transforming the world into a universal world. This is because it is enhancing the spread of cultures among nations. In addition, it also creates the spread of technologies from developed to underdeveloped countries (Harrison & Dye 366).

How modifications added value to the understanding/explaining the causes of underdevelopment It is apparent that the theory has added value as far as explaining the causes of underdevelopment is concerned. This is seen in the sense that it enhances people’s understanding of the effects of globalization being experienced in the modern world and its contribution to underdevelopment. This is based on the fact that the theory holds the globalization is creating a huge disparity between the wealthy and the impoverished.

This scenario is currently witnessed in the U.S. that is suffering due to the economic downturn despite being an industrial nation. Dependency theory Dependency theory is a theory that was developed in opposition to the modernization theory. According to dependency theory, underdeveloped countries were doomed to stagnation because surpluses produced by these countries are appropriated by capitalist nations through agencies. Therefore, according to the theory, the third world countries cannot catch up with developed countries as posited by modernization theory.

The theory holds that the only way the third world countries can achieve meaningful development is by severing ties with capitalism and practicing autocratic socialist strategies (Harrison & Dye 366). Why modifications were needed This theory was modified due to the criticism of the modernization