FUTURE OF MODERNIZATION PAPER

Future of Modernization Paper

Future of Modernization Paper

Modernization is a homogenizing process, in that sense we can only say that modernization generates trend towards convergence between companies. Moreover, modernization is a process that has been seen as irreversible. In other words, once the third world countries come into contact with the West will not be able to resist the impetus for the modernization process. According to mass-society theory, modernity increases the scale of life, enlarging the role of government and other formal organizations in carrying out tasks previously performed by family members and neighbors. Cultural diversity and rapid social change make difficult for people in modern societies to define what is morally acceptable, develop stable identities, and find meaning in their lives.

In the United States, modernization can present itself in many ways. One way in which it is accessible is through changes in technology. The world's technology as we used to recognize, or at least as our grandparents used to know it, has significantly changed. In today's world, we possess some forms of technology, and some of this technology did not even be present until a short time ago (Rodgers, 2004). This includes email, cellular phones, iPods, and computers. These technological breakthroughs are mainly used for communication purposes, but no matter what its uses are we have grown accustomed and dependent upon this technology. Additionally, we worship and in many ways live and die by the television, with either our favorite sports team, reality TV, or what some people refer to as 'stories'. Furthermore, our children are receiving more luxurious items such as video games, high-definition televisions, cell phones, and computers just to name a few (Rodgers, 2004).

Our modernization can also be shown through our laws, from civil rights to women's right, from laws against ageism, to protection for the disabled, we have developed laws to represent many people who may not receive the same consideration in other countries. Accountability from our government personnel, greater security and the ability for every citizen to make their own choices about their lives are more examples of our modernization. Consumer spending is rampant in the US; we spend more than many other countries combined. Our medical, technological and scientific fields are expanding at a rapid pace, and education is given a high priority. We are expected 'leaders' and to be modern or urbanized people in order to compete with others for jobs, schools, even significant others.

This trend will continue and likely increase as we move forward. The job, housing and school markets are becoming increasingly competitive, and you are many times judged by your education, career choice and where you live. People are encouraged to be entrepreneurs and to step out and create or expand industries and hopefully jobs for others. The information age has increased global awareness exponentially, and the US thrives off of this technology. More people are marking their place in the World Wide Web, thinking of new or improved uses for it, and exposing their life, ...