3.4 Modernization and Dependency Theories

Decolonization and Development

• Decolonization: process where countries or groups that were colonized (taken over by foreign powers) regain their independence and control over their own land and resources. It means ending the colonial rule and addressing the effects of colonization, such as restoring local cultures, traditions, and identities. In simple terms, it’s about colonized people taking back their power and making decisions for themselves without outside interference.

• Post-WWII Decolonization: Triggered a demand for development models.

• Cold War Context: The Soviet model emerged as an appealing alternative to American capitalism, prompting the U.S. to propose its own development models to ally with emerging nations.

Modernization Theory

• Definition: Offered a framework for economic development during the Cold War.

• W.W. Rostow: Founder of Modernization theory, author of "The Stages of Economic Growth" ("A Non-Communist Manifesto").

  • Argument: Societies lie within five economic stages:

  1. Traditional Society: Reliance on kinship, agriculture-based economy, minimal technology, rooted in mythology.

  2. Pre-conditions for Take-off: Shift towards entrepreneurship and emergent social groups advocating for change.

  3. Take-off: Tipping point marking rapid economic and social development, centralization of political authority to foster growth, urbanization, and declining birth rates.

  4. Drive to Maturity: Continued economic growth, diversification, and increased reliance on technology.

  5. Age of High Mass Consumption: Economy mimicking U.S. in the 1960s, focusing on mass production and consumption, increased real income, and expanded social welfare.

• Development Path: All countries progress along a similar path, with some countries (e.g., Afghanistan) still in initial stages while others (e.g., Japan) have reached advanced stages.

Dependency Theory

• Critique of Modernization: Emerging in the 1960s, particularly among Latin American theorists (e.g., Immanuel Wallerstein, Andre Gunder Frank).

• Key Concepts:

  • Theories argue Modernization overlooks the historical impact of colonialism.

  • Dependency theorists assert that First World development relied on resource extraction from the Third World, suggesting a different developmental origin.

  • Economic development and underdevelopment are interconnected; both stem from contradictions in the world capitalist system (Frank's coin analogy).

• Contrasting Views:

  • Modernization: Internal dynamics impede growth; external engagement beneficial.

  • Dependency: External links hinder development; local focus necessary (Samir Amin’s concept of “de-linking”).

Evolution of Development Theories

• By the 1970s, scholars began presenting wider issues in development (basic needs, poverty, environment, and gender).

• Earlier theories focused heavily on economic growth without addressing broader societal challenges.

• Recent critiques emphasize inclusivity and representational issues in development practices, questioning their applicability across different contexts.

• Arturo Escobar: Declared the "death of development" suggesting the concept has become obsolete and impractical.

• Wolfgang Sachs: Viewed development as an outdated idea with a history of failure and disappointment.

Current Perspectives

• Despite critiques, development remains integral to global political economy and state legitimacy in developing nations.

• The conversation continues regarding what development truly means and how best to achieve it, with acknowledgment of past failures and the need for adaptable approaches.