PUB 301: Theories of Development - Detailed Exam Study Guide
PUB 301: Theories of Development - Detailed Exam Study Guide
1. MODERNIZATION THEORY
Definition:
Modernization theory argues that development occurs when societies transform from traditional, agrarian
systems into modern, industrialized ones. It assumes a linear path of progress similar to that of Western
nations.
Key Features:
- Emphasis on industrialization, urbanization, education, and rationalism.
- Belief in internal causes of underdevelopment (e.g., lack of modern values).
- Stages of development (e.g., Rostow's "Stages of Economic Growth").
Application to Nigeria:
- Nigeria's National Development Plans (1962-85) were inspired by modernization goals.
- Investments in infrastructure, education, and technology aimed to "modernize" the economy.
Criticism:
- Ethnocentric: sees Western development as the only path.
- Overlooks external factors like colonialism and global inequality.
- Fails to consider indigenous systems.
Likely Question:
"Critically examine the assumptions of modernization theory and assess its applicability to Nigeria's
post-independence development efforts."
2. DEPENDENCY THEORY
Definition:
Dependency theory posits that underdevelopment in countries like Nigeria results from historical exploitation
and structural inequalities in the global economy.
Key Features:
- Focus on external causes: colonialism, neo-colonialism.
- Division into core (developed) and periphery (developing) nations.
- Emphasis on unequal trade relations.
Application to Nigeria:
- Nigeria's economy relied on raw exports and imported finished goods during colonialism.
- SAPs (1986) were driven by Western-dominated financial institutions, increasing Nigeria's debt and
dependency.
Criticism:
- Downplays internal issues like corruption and mismanagement.
- Offers few practical solutions.
Likely Question:
"Discuss the relevance of dependency theory to Nigeria's economic challenges."
3. NEOLIBERALISM
Definition:
A theory promoting free markets, deregulation, privatization, and reduced government spending.
Key Features:
- Encourages private sector-led growth.
- Rejects state intervention in the economy.
- Influences policies through institutions like the IMF and World Bank.
Application to Nigeria:
- Implementation of Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs) in the 1980s.
- Deregulation of oil prices, privatization of NEPA, liberalization of the banking sector.
Criticism:
- Increased poverty and unemployment.
- Collapse of local industries due to foreign competition.
Likely Question:
"Analyze the impact of neoliberal economic policies on Nigeria's development trajectory."
4. WORLD SYSTEMS THEORY
Definition:
Immanuel Wallerstein's theory divides the world into core, semi-periphery, and periphery, arguing that
development and underdevelopment are outcomes of a global capitalist system.
Application to Nigeria:
- Nigeria is positioned in the periphery, exporting raw materials and importing finished products.
- Reflects global economic inequality and dependence.
Criticism:
- Too rigid in classification.
- Underestimates local agency.
Likely Question:
"Using world systems theory, explain Nigeria's position in the global economy."
5. BASIC NEEDS / ANTI-DEVELOPMENT THEORIES
Definition:
Basic needs theory prioritizes access to food, shelter, health care, and education. Anti-development theory
questions the entire idea of "development" as a Western imposition.
Application to Nigeria:
- Government rural electrification and primary healthcare programs.
- Community-based interventions like boreholes and local clinics.
Criticism:
- Poor funding and implementation.
- Anti-development view can be too radical and dismissive of progress.
Likely Question:
"Evaluate the basic needs approach in addressing poverty in Nigeria."
6. FEMINIST AND GENDER DEVELOPMENT THEORIES
Definition:
These theories emphasize the need to include women and gender perspectives in development planning.
Key Features:
- Gender equity in access to resources and decision-making.
- Women as active participants in development, not just beneficiaries.
Application to Nigeria:
- Gender budgeting in Lagos.
- National Gender Policy, Women Development Centres.
Criticism:
- Gender policies are often tokenistic.
- Cultural and religious barriers hinder implementation.
Likely Question:
"Assess the role of gender-sensitive planning in Nigeria's development."
7. ETHNO-DEVELOPMENT / INDIGENOUS SYSTEMS
Definition:
Advocates for development rooted in indigenous knowledge, traditions, and cultural identity.
Application to Nigeria:
- Use of town unions in the Southeast.
- Traditional rulers as local governance actors.
Criticism:
- Risk of reinforcing harmful traditions or local elites.
- Lack of formal recognition in national development policy.
Likely Question:
"Discuss how indigenous systems can contribute to sustainable development in Nigeria."
8. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT / LIVELIHOOD APPROACH
Definition:
Sustainable development aims to meet current needs without compromising future generations. The
livelihood approach focuses on people's means of living and resilience.
Application to Nigeria:
- Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) projects.
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework.
Criticism:
- Poor implementation and weak institutions.
- Environmental policies often ignored or underfunded.
Likely Question:
"How has Nigeria integrated sustainable development into its national planning?"
9. CORRUPTION AND INSTITUTIONAL THEORY
Definition:
Emphasizes the role of institutions (rules, norms, and laws) in shaping development outcomes.
Application to Nigeria:
- Weak institutions enable corruption, policy inconsistency.
- Anti-corruption agencies like EFCC, ICPC.
Criticism:
- Institutions often politicized.
- Implementation of reforms is inconsistent.
Likely Question:
"Examine how institutional weaknesses have undermined Nigeria's development."
10. GLOBALIZATION THEORIES
Definition:
Focuses on the increasing interconnectedness of the world through trade, information, and culture.
Application to Nigeria:
- Growth in telecommunications and digital economy.
- Influence of foreign culture via media.
Criticism:
- Cultural imperialism, loss of local identity.
- Unequal benefits of global trade.
Likely Question:
"Evaluate the effects of globalization on Nigeria's development trajectory."
11. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT AND POLICY CHANGE THEORIES
Definition:
Links development with political institutions, stability, and effective governance.
Application to Nigeria:
- Democratic governance since 1999.
- National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (NEEDS), Vision 20:2020.
Criticism:
- Frequent policy changes reduce effectiveness.
- Politics often disrupts continuity.
Likely Question:
"Assess how political development and policy change have shaped Nigeria's economic growth."
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STUDY TIPS:
- For each theory: Understand definition, 2 Nigerian examples, and 2 criticisms.
- Practice 2-3 essay-style answers from this guide.
- Focus on linking theory to Nigerian history and contemporary issues.
