Modernization Theory

Modernization theory is a sociological theory that posits that all societies progress through a series of stages from traditional to modern. Traditional societies are characterized by a reliance on agriculture, extended families, and religious beliefs. Modern societies are characterized by industrialization, urbanization, and secularization.

Modernization theory argues that global inequality is due to the fact that some societies are more advanced in the process of modernization than others. Developed countries are seen as being at the forefront of modernization, while developing countries are seen as being at earlier stages.

Modernization theorists believe that developing countries can achieve economic growth and development by following the path taken by developed countries. This includes adopting Western values and institutions, such as democracy, free markets, and private property rights.

Dependency Theory

Dependency theory is a sociological theory that argues that global inequality is the result of a relationship of exploitation between developed and developing countries. Developed countries are seen as the “core” of the global economy, while developing countries are seen as the “periphery.”

Dependency theorists argue that the core exploits the periphery by extracting resources and labor at low prices and selling finished goods at high prices. This creates a cycle of dependence in which developing countries are unable to achieve economic growth and development.

Dependency theorists believe that developing countries can only break free from dependence by delinking their economies from the global capitalist system. This may involve pursuing policies such as import substitution and nationalization of key industries.

Differences Between Modernization and Dependency Theory

Modernization and dependency theory differ in a number of ways. Modernization theory takes a Eurocentric perspective, seeing Western values and institutions as essential for economic development. Dependency theory, on the other hand, takes a more critical perspective, arguing that the global capitalist system is responsible for global inequality.

Modernization theory also tends to be more optimistic about the prospects for developing countries. It sees economic growth and development as inevitable, given that developing countries adopt Western values and institutions. Dependency theory, on the other hand, is more pessimistic, arguing that developing countries are trapped in a cycle of dependence that is difficult to break free from.

Which Theory is More Useful for Explaining Global Inequality?

Both modernization theory and dependency theory have been criticized for their shortcomings. Modernization theory has been criticized for being Eurocentric and for ignoring the role of colonialism and exploitation in global inequality. Dependency theory has been criticized for being too pessimistic and for ignoring the successes of some developing countries.

Despite their shortcomings, both theories can be useful for understanding global inequality. Modernization theory can help us to understand the importance of economic growth and development. Dependency theory can help us to understand the structural constraints that developing countries face.

Examples

Here is an example that compares and contrasts modernization theory and dependency theory:

• Modernization theory: The success of South Korea is often cited as an example of the success of modernization theory. South Korea was a poor, agrarian country after the Korean War. However, it rapidly industrialized and urbanized in the following decades. Today, South Korea is a developed country with a high standard of living.
• Dependency theory: The underdevelopment of many African countries is often cited as an example of the failure of modernization theory. Despite decades of Western aid and investment, many African countries remain poor and underdeveloped. Dependency theorists argue that this is because African countries are trapped in a cycle of dependence on the global capitalist system.

The United States in the Global Stratification Structure

Both modernization theory and dependency theory agree that the United States is at the top of the global stratification structure. The United States is the world’s largest economy and its military power is unmatched.

However, the two theories differ in their explanations for why the United States is so powerful. Modernization theorists argue that the United States is successful because it has adopted Western values and institutions. Dependency theorists argue that the United States is successful because it exploits other countries through the global capitalist system.

Applying Modernization and Dependency Theory to Stratification Within the United States

Both modernization theory and dependency theory can be applied to stratification within the United States. Modernization theory can be used to explain why some groups are more successful than others in the United States. For example, modernization theorists argue that Asian Americans are successful because they have adopted the values of hard work and academic achievement.

Dependency theory can be used to explain why some groups are disadvantaged in the United States. For example, dependency theorists argue that African Americans are disadvantaged because of the legacy of racism and discrimination in the United States.