Global development theories like Modernisation, Dependency, World Systems, and Post-development offer insights into societal growth. They influence policy and address economic disparities, exploitation, and the need for culturally sensitive development models.
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Modernisation Theory presents a linear model of development with five stages, culminating in an era of high mass consumption
Modernisation Theory has been critiqued for its ethnocentric perspective and for neglecting the negative impacts of development
Modernisation Theory emphasizes the role of industrialization, urbanization, education, and the adoption of modern values in a society's development
Neoliberalism attributes development challenges to internal factors within a country, focusing on economic policy and institutional frameworks
Neoliberalism advocates for minimal state intervention in the economy and promotes free-market principles
Structural Adjustment Programs, tied to international financial assistance, impose conditions that promote neoliberal policies
Dependency Theory emphasizes the role of external forces in perpetuating underdevelopment, describing a global structure where wealthy nations benefit from the exploitation of poorer ones
Dependency Theory sees the relationship between developed and developing nations as an extension of colonialism, facilitated by transnational corporations and conditional international aid
Dependency Theory advocates for developing nations to break from the global capitalist system and take control of their resources to chart independent development paths
Post-development Theory questions the Western-centric bias of traditional development approaches and calls for a redefinition of development
Post-development Theory proposes development approaches that are sensitive to the unique needs and contexts of the Global South, rather than replicating Western industrial models
Post-development Theory introduces considerations of environmental sustainability and community-driven development, proposing a more inclusive and diverse understanding of development that respects different cultures and values