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Questions and Answers
Explain the main focus of modernisation theory in relation to global inequalities.
The main focus of modernisation theory is to highlight how some cultural factors impede the economic development of certain countries.
According to modernisation theory, what is the role of non-western cultures in economic inequality?
According to modernisation theory, economic inequality is largely self-inflicted due to the substandard quality of non-western cultures.
How does modernisation theory critique other theories explaining global inequality?
Modernisation theory exposes how other theories used to explain inequality fall into the trap of economic reductionism and largely ignore the important role which cultural factors play when dissecting the cause of global inequality.
What is considered as one of the main benefits of modernisation theory?
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What are some criticisms of modernisation theory in relation to global inequality?
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Study Notes
Modernisation Theory and Global Inequalities
- The main focus of modernisation theory is to explain global inequalities by arguing that traditional societies can develop economically and socially by adopting modern western values, institutions, and technologies.
Role of Non-Western Cultures in Economic Inequality
- Modernisation theory views non-western cultures as a barrier to economic development, suggesting that they need to be modernised and westernised to catch up with the West.
- Non-western cultures are seen as traditional, backward, and obstacle to economic progress.
Critique of Other Theories
- Modernisation theory critiques other theories, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory, for being overly critical of the West and capitalism.
- It argues that these theories are too pessimistic about the possibility of development in non-western societies.
Benefits of Modernisation Theory
- One of the main benefits of modernisation theory is that it provides a roadmap for economic development, arguing that developing countries can follow the same path as the West to achieve economic growth.
Criticisms of Modernisation Theory
- Critics argue that modernisation theory is overly simplistic, ignoring the complexity of global inequalities and the diversity of non-western cultures.
- It is also criticised for being Eurocentric, assuming that western values and institutions are superior to others.
- Some critics argue that modernisation theory blames the victim, suggesting that the problem lies with the non-western cultures rather than with the structural inequalities of the global system.
- Others argue that modernisation theory ignores the role of power relations, inequality, and exploitation in shaping global inequalities.
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Description
Test your knowledge of sociological explanations for global inequalities with this quiz on modernization theory. Explore key concepts and theorists, and deepen your understanding of how cultural and economic factors contribute to global disparities.
