7.3c Rostow's Modernisation Theory

Question 1

Background of Rostow’s Modernisation Theory

Answer 1

1960s capitalist model with an emphasis on economic modernisation

Proposes 5 successive stages of growth

Question 2

All five stages

Answer 2

Traditional society

Conditions for take-off

Take-off

Drive to maturity

High mass consumption

Question 3

Stage 1 of Rostow’s Modernisation Theory

Answer 3

Traditional society

Based on subsistence agriculture

Tech lacking and resource undeveloped

Village in Lesotho, 86% workforce subsistence agriculture

Question 4

Stage 2 of Rostow’s Modernisation Theory

Answer 4

Conditions for take-off

Development include profits from farming and improving infrastructure such as transport networks

Extractive industries also develop

Question 5

Stage 3 of Rostow’s Modernisation Theory

Answer 5

Take-off

Intro and rapid growth of manufacturing industries, better infrastructure, financial investment and cultural change as part of an industrial revolution

Question 6

Stage 4 of Rostow’s Modernisation Theory

Answer 6

Drive to maturity

New ideas and tech improve and replace older industries and economic growth spreads through all sectors and area of a country

Question 7

Stage 5 of Rostow’s Modernisation Theory

Answer 7

High mass consumption

People have more wealth and buy services and good

Question 8

Criticisms of Rostow’s Modernisation Theory

Answer 8

-Only describes economic change associated with development

• Does not help to understand cultural and political aspects of power.
• Assumes Western forms of capitalism ideal and conveniently ignores social and economic problems that are common in those societies