Theories of Development Communication

Modernization Theory
BOOK- MODERNIZATION (Theories and Facts)
Author- DAM PRZEWORSKI and FERNANDO LIMONGI*

Modernization theory originated from the ideas of German sociologist Max

Weber (1864–1920), which provided the basis for
the modernization paradigm developed by Harvard sociologist Talcott
Parsons (1902–1979). According to the modernization theory, modern
societies are more productive, children are better educated, and the needy
receive more welfare. According to Smelser’s analysis, modern societies
have the particular feature of social structural differentiation, that is to say
a clear definition of functions and political roles from national institutions.
Smelser argues that although structural differentiation has increased the
functional capacity of modern organizations, it has also created the
problem of integration, and of coordinating the activities of the various new
institutions.

Dependency Theory
Book- Dialogues on Development(volume I: on Dependency)
Author- JIMI ADESINA

Dependency Theory developed in the late 1950s under the guidance of the

Director of the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America,
Raul Prebisch. Dependency theory is a school of thought in contemporary
social science which seeks to contribute to an understanding
of underdevelopment, an analysis of its causes, and to a lesser extent, paths
toward overcoming it. It arose in Latin America in the 1960s, became
influential in academic circles and at regional organizations, spread rapidly
to North America, Europe, and Africa, and continues to be relevant to
contemporary debate. This article examines the history of its chief concept,
describes its evolution over time, analyzes its influence, and evaluates its
validity and prospects for social science in the future.
Diffusion of innovation Theory
Book- DIFFUSION OF INNOVATIONS (Third Edition)

Author- Everett M. Rogers

The Theory, developed by E.M. Rogers in 1962, is one of the oldest social

science theories. The diffusion of innovation theory analysis how the social
members adopt the new innovative ideas and how they made the decision
towards it. Both mass media and interpersonal communication channel is
involved in the diffusion process. The theory  heavily relies on Human
capital. According to the theory , innovations should be widely adopted in
order to attain development and sustainability. In real life situations the
adaptability of the culture played a very relevant role where ever the
theory was applied.