The Social Differentiation Model by Smelser (1959)

The model consists of four processes that explain the change from traditional to modern society.

1.There is a move from simple to complex technology  modernization of technology. Eg. Use of typewriter to computer

2.There is a change from subsistence farming to cash crop farming commercialization of agriculture. Eg. Use of HYV of paddy for 2- cropping replacing the 1-cropping

3.There is a transformation from the use of human and animal power to machine power  industrialization. Eg. Use of machines in textile and food industries

4.There is a change from the rural settlements to urban settlements. There should be accompanied by public amenities such as schools and banks

The processes may occur simultaneously or at different time or rates.

Modernization leads to social and structural differentiation.

Eg. a developed economy and society is highly differentiated culture. Commercialization of agriculture leads to differentiation of production, marketing and consumption.

The change from traditional to modern society affects social structure in 3 ways:

1. Structural differentiation is defined as a process whereby one social role or organization differentiates into two or more roles or structure to function more effectively. The new social units are structurally distinct from each other.

2. Integration – small differentiated units merge into larger units which are assumed to be stronger and more efficient.

3. Differentiation may lead to uneven processes of change – conflicts, disturbances, disparity in values and acceptance.

Eg. one reaction to modernization has been the emergence of social groups that reject modern values.

Another theory of development by Dudley Seers (1969) says that development should occur when 3 major social problems i.e. inequality, poverty and unemployment among the population are reduced.

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