, DVA3701
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 2
2026
DUE 9 SEPTEMBER 2026
Modernisation and Dependency Theories: A Critical Analysis
Introduction
Development theory has evolved significantly since the mid-twentieth century, with modernisation
and dependency theories representing two of the most influential yet contrasting paradigms for
understanding global inequality. These frameworks emerged from distinct historical contexts and
offer fundamentally different explanations for why some nations prosper while others remain
impoverished. This essay critically discusses both theories in terms of their origins, applications,
general views on development, and assesses whether the criticisms levelled against them are
justified.
Modernisation Theory: Origins, Application and Views on Development
Modernisation theory emerged in the post-World War II period, gaining prominence during the
1950s and 1960s as a product of Cold War geopolitics (Rostow, 1960). It was motivated by a
concern to challenge socialist ideas in the post-colonial world and to present a capitalist path to
development for newly independent nations. The theory drew heavily on structural functionalist
sociology, particularly the work of Talcott Parsons, and conceptualised development as a staged
transition from traditional to modern society (Parsons, 1966).
According to modernisation theory, underdevelopment is understood as an internally caused
condition resulting from cultural, structural and attitudinal obstacles within less developed
countries (Lerner, 1958). These obstacles include high rates of illiteracy, insistence on traditions,
lack of modern industries, low capitalisation on land, and attitudes resistant to necessary changes.
The theory assumes that economic development represents a universal path that all nations will
eventually follow, provided they emulate the economic and social systems of Western capitalism.
Countries that have difficulty acquiring the preconditions for development are expected to borrow
extensively from advanced industrial countries, thereby setting themselves on the trajectory
toward modernisation (Rostow, 1960).
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 2
2026
DUE 9 SEPTEMBER 2026
Modernisation and Dependency Theories: A Critical Analysis
Introduction
Development theory has evolved significantly since the mid-twentieth century, with modernisation
and dependency theories representing two of the most influential yet contrasting paradigms for
understanding global inequality. These frameworks emerged from distinct historical contexts and
offer fundamentally different explanations for why some nations prosper while others remain
impoverished. This essay critically discusses both theories in terms of their origins, applications,
general views on development, and assesses whether the criticisms levelled against them are
justified.
Modernisation Theory: Origins, Application and Views on Development
Modernisation theory emerged in the post-World War II period, gaining prominence during the
1950s and 1960s as a product of Cold War geopolitics (Rostow, 1960). It was motivated by a
concern to challenge socialist ideas in the post-colonial world and to present a capitalist path to
development for newly independent nations. The theory drew heavily on structural functionalist
sociology, particularly the work of Talcott Parsons, and conceptualised development as a staged
transition from traditional to modern society (Parsons, 1966).
According to modernisation theory, underdevelopment is understood as an internally caused
condition resulting from cultural, structural and attitudinal obstacles within less developed
countries (Lerner, 1958). These obstacles include high rates of illiteracy, insistence on traditions,
lack of modern industries, low capitalisation on land, and attitudes resistant to necessary changes.
The theory assumes that economic development represents a universal path that all nations will
eventually follow, provided they emulate the economic and social systems of Western capitalism.
Countries that have difficulty acquiring the preconditions for development are expected to borrow
extensively from advanced industrial countries, thereby setting themselves on the trajectory
toward modernisation (Rostow, 1960).
