THEORIES OF DEVELOPMENT: Modernization Theory.

Summary

In this video, Desmond Joyce Natto introduces the Modernization Theory, which suggests that underdeveloped societies can progress by becoming more secular and industrialized. He outlines the five stages of development proposed by economist Walt Rostow, from traditional societies to full economic maturity. The theory posits that societies evolve through stages like low-tech economies, industrialization, and improved living standards. However, the theory faces criticism for ignoring the impact of colonization and the geopolitical dynamics that shape the development of so-called 'third world' nations. A follow-up video will explore the Dependency Theory, which critiques this perspective.

Takeaways

• 😀 Modernization Theory argues that all societies move from underdevelopment to development through a series of stages.
• 😀 Underdeveloped countries are seen as 'traditional societies' that need to become more secular and industrialized to progress.
• 😀 Developed countries are categorized as 'modern societies' that are more secular, industrialized, and technologically advanced.
• 😀 Walt Rostow, an economist, outlined five stages of development that societies go through on the path to modernization.
• 😀 The five stages of development are: Traditional Society, Preconditions for Takeoff, Takeoff, Maturity, and Age of High Mass Consumption.
• 😀 The first stage, Traditional Society, is marked by low technology and manual labor in sectors like agriculture, fishing, and mining.
• 😀 The second stage, Preconditions for Takeoff, sees societies becoming more industrialized and secular, shedding traditional practices.
• 😀 The third stage, Takeoff, occurs when society is fully industrialized, with machines driving production and a fully secular culture.
• 😀 The fourth stage, Maturity, involves replacing old machines with newer, more durable technology to sustain growth.
• 😀 The final stage, Age of High Mass Consumption, occurs when basic needs are met, allowing citizens to enjoy a higher standard of living and luxury.
• 😀 The Modernization Theory has been criticized for ignoring the unique challenges faced by post-colonial countries, which were often colonized and oppressed by the very nations that are now considered fully developed.

Q & A

What is the Modernization Theory?

The Modernization Theory is a socio-economic theory that suggests underdeveloped societies can progress towards development by adopting more secular and industrialized systems, following a set sequence of stages.

When did the Modernization Theory originate?

The Modernization Theory originated in the 1950s and 1960s, during the period when newly independent countries, often referred to as third-world or underdeveloped, sought pathways for development.

What is the central idea of the Modernization Theory?

The central idea of the Modernization Theory is that underdevelopment is merely a stage in the broader process of development, and all societies once went through a phase of underdevelopment.

How does the Modernization Theory view the difference between modern and traditional societies?

According to the Modernization Theory, traditional societies are characterized by superstition, religion, and low-tech economies, while modern societies are secular, industrialized, and technologically advanced.

What are the five stages of development according to Walt Rostow?

The five stages of development according to Walt Rostow are: 1) Traditional society, 2) Preconditions for takeoff, 3) Takeoff stage, 4) Maturity stage, 5) Consumption stage.

What happens in the 'Traditional Society' stage of development?

In the Traditional Society stage, economies are based on low technology, with primary economic activities such as farming, fishing, and mining performed manually or with minimal technological tools.

What characterizes the 'Preconditions for Takeoff' stage?

During the Preconditions for Takeoff stage, societies begin to industrialize and shed traditional beliefs, transitioning to more modern, secular, and industrial practices.

What is the 'Takeoff Stage' in the development process?

The Takeoff Stage is when a society becomes fully industrialized, with mechanized means of production and a fully secular outlook.

What happens during the 'Maturity Stage' of development?

In the Maturity Stage, societies replace outdated machinery with more durable and efficient technology, ensuring continued industrial growth.

What does the 'Consumption Stage' represent?

The Consumption Stage represents a society where basic needs are met, and citizens can afford a higher standard of living, including luxuries and services.

What criticism does the Modernization Theory face?

The Modernization Theory is criticized for ignoring the unique historical and external challenges faced by underdeveloped countries, especially the impact of colonialism and ongoing exploitation by global powers.

What theory will be discussed in the next video?

The next video will discuss the Dependency Theory, which critiques the Modernization Theory by arguing that third-world countries are often held back by external powers and global inequalities.