Criticisms of both modernisation & dependency theory

Both modernisation and dependency theory make the mistake of treating LDCs (least developed countries) as homogeneous (i.e. as having the same characteristics). They fail to understand that value systems and institutions tend to be culture-specific. For example, Ethiopia and Somalia may be neighbouring LDCs but their cultures are quite different from one another and may each require different development programmes. Some sociologists therefore argue that each LDC needs to be analysed and understood independently.

Both theories also make the mistake of treating capitalist societies as homogeneous and consequently fail to acknowledge that there are different types of capitalism and cultural reactions to it. For example, American capitalism (based upon Fordism) tends to have a different character to Japanese capitalism (which tends to be more paternalistic).

Both theories can be accused of being over-deterministic in that they make little attempt to explore the interpretations of people in the LDCs. They fail to acknowledge that LDC people might rationally choose to take a capitalist path, might rationally choose to hang on to their own culture or might rationally choose to combine elements of capitalism and their own cultures – as in Japan.

Finally, Foster-Carter accuses both theories of presenting the relationship between LDCs and the West in terms of conflict or ‘them versus us’. For example, modernisation theory sees LDCs as ‘backward’ societies that ‘need’ our help to develop, whilst dependency theory sees ‘us’ as exploiting ‘them’ for cheap labour and raw materials. Foster-Carter argues that this disguises the similarities that exist between LDCs and the West.