Future of Modernization

Modernization is the way culture and society manifests itself through environmental, social, economic, and political changes for the good of the masses. Modernization is a worldwide movement; some of these manifestations have been positive, and indeed, progressive while other “advances” have been harmful and destructive. This paper will explore the consequences and trends of modernization, several different theories of modernization, and what possibilities it has for the future. Modernization is characterized by four key elements, which are committees becoming smaller in exchange for larger urban developments (cities), and the desire for individualized choice and the development of diversified societies.

Modernization has been transforming society for thousands of years, developing ideas to help people with daily task to better that person’s life. This, of course, was the purpose of the industrial revolution during the late 1700s, (Macionis, p. 485). This industrialization period, which began in England and the United Kingdom, led to the extensive growth of Europe’s ability to produce. There were significant population growth in urban areas and increased earning potential for limited and unskilled laborers. This period was also marked with poor living conditions, limited changes for education, and little regulation for child labor.

The highs and lows that coincide with events of the industrial revolution are often seen when discussing modernization. The good of the industrial revolution allows Europe to flourish and prosper and guide the way for other courtiers to follow suit, and later the development of safe work and living conditions. In current society, there is a constant struggle to find the balance between “finding a brighter tomorrow” and “creating a dark future” for the next generations, (Margetts, Perri, Hood, 2010). In modernized countries people live longer and have less offspring, but consume more and create more pollution than “lesser” developed...