Theoretical Approaches: Modernisation Theory

Question 1

Modernisation Theory: what is it?

Answer 1

• As socities develop, moving from **agricultural to industrial, traditional structures are broken down. **
• Leading to anomie, social disorganisation and an increase in crime.

Question 2

Modernisation: Key Concepts (3)

Answer 2

DURKHEIM’S ANOMIE: rapid change causes breakdown of social norms

Urbanisation & industrialisation weaken community bonds + increase inequality

Property Crimes Rise; material aspirations grow faster than opportunities

Question 3

Modernisation: Cross-National Application (3)

Answer 3

• explains why developing nations often see rising crime rates
• in the early stages, crime increased (eastern Europe 1990)
• over time violent crime declines, but property crimes remain high due to MATERIALISM.

Question 4

Modernisation theory: Strengths & Criticisms

Answer 4

Strengths:
* explains crime as a result of development related disruptions
* supported by data in transitioning nations

Criticisms
* not all modernising countries experience more crime (ex:Japan)
* doesn’t explain why some countries manage change better than others

Question 5

Modernisation: give an example

Answer 5

China’s crime tripled from 1978 to 1998 during its shift from an agrarian to industrial economy.