5. (e ) Trace the trajectory of development perspectives on social change (2022/P1/10/ Social Change)
The trajectory of development perspectives on social change has evolved over time, reflecting shifts in theoretical frameworks, policy approaches, and global contexts. Different eras and paradigms have shaped how scholars and practitioners conceptualize social change within the broader context of development. Here's a brief overview of the trajectory of development perspectives on social change:
Modernization Theory (1950s-1960s):
Key Ideas: Modernization theory emerged in the mid-20th century and posited that societies progress through a linear trajectory from traditional to modern stages. Economic development, industrialization, and the adoption of Western values were seen as prerequisites for social change.
Social Change Focus: Modernization theorists believed that social change would occur as societies adopted modern institutions and practices, leading to increased prosperity and improved living standards.
Dependency Theory (1960s-1970s):
Key Ideas: In response to modernization theory, dependency theorists argued that underdevelopment in some countries was not a stage on the path to development but a result of their dependent relationships with more powerful nations. Economic and political structures were seen as perpetuating inequalities.
Social Change Focus: Dependency theorists called for structural changes in the global economic system to address power imbalances and promote more equitable development.
World-Systems Theory (1970s-1980s):
Key Ideas: Building on dependency theory, world-systems theory, developed by sociologist Immanuel Wallerstein, examined the global capitalist system as a complex, interdependent structure with core, semi-peripheral, and peripheral nations.
Social Change Focus: World-systems theorists emphasized the need for structural transformation at the global level to address the root causes of social inequalities and promote more inclusive social change.
Neoliberalism and Structural Adjustment (1980s-1990s):
Key Ideas: The rise of neoliberalism brought about a shift toward market-oriented economic policies. Structural adjustment programs, promoted by international financial institutions, aimed to liberalize economies, reduce state intervention, and enhance market forces.
Social Change Focus: Neoliberal perspectives on social change emphasized market-driven economic growth, with the belief that this would lead to overall development and poverty reduction.
Post-Development Critiques (1980s-1990s):
Key Ideas: Scholars and activists, influenced by post-modern and post-colonial theories, challenged the universalizing narratives of development. They argued for more context-specific, participatory, and culturally sensitive approaches.
Social Change Focus: Post-development perspectives called for embracing diverse local knowledges, empowering marginalized communities, and redefining development in ways that go beyond Western-centric models.
Sustainable Development (1990s-Present):
Key Ideas: The concept of sustainable development emerged as a response to environmental concerns and the recognition that development should be ecologically sustainable. It emphasizes the integration of economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
Social Change Focus: Sustainable development perspectives seek to balance human well-being with environmental conservation, promoting social change that is inclusive, environmentally conscious, and resilient.
Participatory Development (1990s-Present):
Key Ideas: Participatory development emphasizes the active involvement of local communities in decision-making processes. It values local knowledge, empowerment, and the democratization of development initiatives.
Social Change Focus: Participatory development approaches aim to foster bottom-up social change, giving agency to local communities and promoting more inclusive and context-specific development outcomes.
Human Development (1990s-Present):
Key Ideas: The human development paradigm, articulated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), emphasizes the expansion of human capabilities, well-being, and agency as central goals of development.
Social Change Focus: Human development perspectives focus on enhancing people's freedoms and opportunities, addressing issues such as education, healthcare, gender equality, and political participation.
Post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals (2015-Present):
Key Ideas: The United Nations adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015, providing a comprehensive framework for addressing global challenges. The SDGs include 17 goals and 169 targets that encompass economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
Social Change Focus: The SDGs emphasize an integrated and holistic approach to social change, calling for concerted efforts at local, national, and global levels to achieve a more sustainable and equitable future.
Throughout this trajectory, there has been a continual evolution and adaptation of development perspectives in response to changing global realities, critiques of existing paradigms, and emerging challenges. Today, discussions on social change within the development context are characterized by a recognition of complexity, diversity, and the need for inclusive, context-specific approaches.
Also Watch Video on Youtube
5. (e ) Trace the trajectory of development perspectives on social change (2022/P1/10/ Social Change)