DVA1501
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 28 MARCH 2025
, DVA1501
Assignment 1 Semester 1 2025
Unique Number:
Due Date: 28 March 2025
Introduction to Development Studies
1. Explanation of Modernisation Theory and Decolonial Theory
Modernisation theory is an idea that came about in the mid-20th century. It suggests
that societies develop in a linear way, moving from being "traditional" to "modern" by
adopting Western values, technologies, and systems. According to this theory, the more
a country industrialises, urbanises, and embraces Western-style economies, the more
"developed" it becomes. The theory was mainly promoted by Western scholars and
policymakers who believed that poorer nations needed to follow the path of developed
Western countries to achieve progress.
On the other hand, decolonial theory emerged as a response to modernisation theory. It
argues that development should not be measured by Western standards but instead
should be based on the unique histories, cultures, and knowledge systems of formerly
colonised nations. Decolonial theorists believe that modernisation theory ignores the
effects of colonialism and how it left many countries struggling with economic and social
challenges. Instead of forcing countries to imitate the West, decolonial theory
encourages them to reclaim their own ways of living and developing.
2. How Decolonial Theory Challenges Modernisation Theory
Decolonial theory challenges modernisation theory in several ways. First, it argues that
modernisation theory ignores the deep impact of colonialism. Colonisers stripped many
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 28 MARCH 2025
, DVA1501
Assignment 1 Semester 1 2025
Unique Number:
Due Date: 28 March 2025
Introduction to Development Studies
1. Explanation of Modernisation Theory and Decolonial Theory
Modernisation theory is an idea that came about in the mid-20th century. It suggests
that societies develop in a linear way, moving from being "traditional" to "modern" by
adopting Western values, technologies, and systems. According to this theory, the more
a country industrialises, urbanises, and embraces Western-style economies, the more
"developed" it becomes. The theory was mainly promoted by Western scholars and
policymakers who believed that poorer nations needed to follow the path of developed
Western countries to achieve progress.
On the other hand, decolonial theory emerged as a response to modernisation theory. It
argues that development should not be measured by Western standards but instead
should be based on the unique histories, cultures, and knowledge systems of formerly
colonised nations. Decolonial theorists believe that modernisation theory ignores the
effects of colonialism and how it left many countries struggling with economic and social
challenges. Instead of forcing countries to imitate the West, decolonial theory
encourages them to reclaim their own ways of living and developing.
2. How Decolonial Theory Challenges Modernisation Theory
Decolonial theory challenges modernisation theory in several ways. First, it argues that
modernisation theory ignores the deep impact of colonialism. Colonisers stripped many
