Modernization Theory

Modernization Theory arose from the work of Walt Rostow, Daniel Lerner, David 
McClelland, Wilbur Schramm, Everett Rogers, and others. Its core assumptions 
are found in Parsons's functionalist theory. Many call it the dominant 
paradigm.

Dependency theory and the World-Systems Theory were instrumental in 
discrediting the top-down Modernization Theory, which smacked of 
"imperialistic" thinking.

The complexity sciences, particularly Prigogine' theory of dissipative 
structures, make a mockery of the presumptions of the Modernization Theory: 
linearity and rversibility of time. It's a West-centric theory, whose 
usefulness is quite doubtful.



>===== Original Message From "Alan Spector" <spectors@netnitco.net> =====
>I have a student doing an independent study course on modernization.  
Basically, what I need is the titles of two or three books on modernization 
theory that explains it in simple terms. The student is not a sociology major 
and does not have a strong background in sociological theory. This is meant
>to be a basic, introductory course, and readability is an especially 
important aspect of these books.  So, if anyone can give me a few ideas, that 
would be helpful. Feel free to e-mail me privately.\
>
>thanks,
>
>Alan Spector
>
>spectors@netnitco.net

Shelton Gunaratne, professor
Mass Communications Department
Minnesota State University Moorhead
1104 Seventh Ave. S.
Moorhead, MN 56563

Tel. (218) 236-4035
Fax  (218) 236-2168