The Political Economy of Global Development: Modernization Theory

• Can developing societies follow a similar path of development to that of ‘western societies’, as Modernization Theory suggests?
• Even if they can, should they?

-         Core assumption of MT is that the obstacles to industrialization are internal to society. (Tradition is the ultimate obstacle, need adoption of Western values (n factor) and lifestyle).

-         MT does not include colonialism – which is how the West developed – on the basis of exploitation of their colonies. Developing countries cannot follow that path of development.

Modern Political Thought: Hobbes Leviathan II:  The Powers of the Sovereign

Why do individuals in the state of nature agree to the state? Do you think this a rational thing for them to do?

• Individuals in the state of nature agree to the formation of the state, as according to Hobbes, humans seek peace. The best way to achieve peace is the establishment of contracts.
• Humans natural tendency to pursue power will always threaten the safety of the contract, therefore a state is established that can use force (and do whatever necessary) to maintain peace and individuals’ rights. “if there be no Power erected, or not great enough for our security; every man will, and may lawfully rely on his own strength and art, for caution against all other men”. Chapter XVII.