Steven was telling his father about the discussion that he had been involved in that day in sociology class. He was telling his father about the increasing global inequality and the desperate living conditions millions of people find themselves in around the world. Steve's father suggested that if only governments in the poorer countries would encourage trade with the Western countries they would see an increase in their wealth, just like the Western countries themselves experienced following the Industrial Revolution. Which of the theories discussed in the textbook is consistent with this view?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The father's suggestion aligns with modernization theory, which proposes that economic development and modernization will improve the lives of people in less developed countries if they follow the same path as Western countries did during the Industrial Revolution. This theory suggests that poor countries can catch up to rich countries through increased economic growth and trade liberalization.

Steven Was Telling His Father About the Discussion That He