Answer to Question #278325 in Sociology for Henry

Question

There is much criticism that modernization theory is Eurocentric. Do you think dependency theory and globalization theory are also biased? Why or why not? Compare and contrast modernization theory, dependency theory, and globalization theory. Which do you think is more useful for explaining global inequality? Explain, using examples.

Answer 1

Yes, both theories are biased and have Eurocentric approaches. The globalization theory has failed to overcome the relationship with the dependency theory. The main difference between dependency theory and modernization theory is that dependency theory mainly focuses on poor and underdeveloped countries, while modernization theory mainly focuses on rich and developed countries. The characteristics of modernization theory include development of scientific temperament, rational outlook, technological advancement openness to new ideas and critical thinking while the characteristics of dependency theory include adoption of liberal principle, private enterprise, profit motive, marketization, interdependence and knowledge distribution. Both modernization theory and dependency theory considered underdeveloped countries the objective of their study.

 Modernization theory and dependency theory are two of the most common lenses sociologists use when looking at the issues of global inequality. Modernization theory posits that countries go through evolutionary stages and that industrialization and improved technology are the keys to forward movement.