Modernisation Processes as Seen in Light of the Theory and Methodology

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Modernisation Processes as Seen in Light of the Theory and Methodology

Journal Title: Соціологія: теорія, методи, маркетинг - Year 2018, Vol 2, Issue

Abstract

The paper discusses theoretical and methodological perspectives on the study of modernisation processes, which is of great importance nowadays. A global theory of modernisation is thought to be a set of specific theories designed for several areas such as economy, politics and culture. The development of this theory is regarded as consisting of three major stages. The first one spanned the period from the mid-1940s to the mid-1960s, when all modernisation theories were being built in either the stream of Western liberalism or that of Marxism. At the second stage, all of those diverging theories were revised in order to clarify whether they could be put into practice. The next phase dates back to the late 1980s — the years when the socialist world-system was falling apart. This period is marked by attempts to develop the global theory of modernisation as a combination of specific systemic theories. The main characteristics of modernisation processes are analysed in the context of transition from traditional to modern society. Modernisation models are multidimensional; therefore, they should take into account, as far as possible, changes in the character of social relations and social structures. It should also be noted that the implementation of these models may engender new social controversies and conflicts or intensify existing ones. Consequently, there is an urgent need for “flexible”, multiple factor models of modernisation, which will encompass historical background (first of all, national and civilisational specifics) of a country, along with examples of successful development of today’s advanced societies. An important conclusion of the modernisation theory is the thesis that this transition process takes place in two stages. At first, a country should carry out modernisation reforms relying on its own resources, then it will seek foreign support. However, modernising countries are often fraught with conflicts, both internal and external. Thus, if a country has already used up domestic resources and decides to apply for foreign assistance, not only foreign partners’ interests but also (primarily) national security concerns must be taken into consideration.

Authors and Affiliations

VALERII PYLYPENKO, GUL’BARSHYN CHEPURKO

Keywords

society. modernisation processes. modernisation models. transformation. changes. theoretical and methodological analysis. economy. politics. culture

EP ID EP491074
DOI -
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