Talcott Parsons and W. W. Rostow: Foundations of Modernization Theory
Talcott Parsons and Structural Functionalism
Parsons: The 1940s and 1950s marked the heyday of structural functionalism theory. Its theoretical basis legitimized U.S. global power and ideas, suggesting that optimal social change involved adherence to existing rules and guidelines. This approach, which contributes to the preservation and survival of the system, helped consolidate U.S. world hegemony.
Parsons proposed a functional theory of social change in social systems, following the organic analogy,
Read MoreIndia’s Foreign Policy: Determinants, Diplomacy, and Global Role
Determinants of India’s Post-Independence Foreign Policy
India’s foreign policy post-1947 has been shaped by its historical experience, developmental needs, strategic concerns, and ideological commitments. As a newly independent state emerging from colonial rule, India’s priorities were sovereignty, territorial integrity, economic development, and global recognition.
- Historical Legacy and Civilizational Values: Ancient Indian philosophies of peace, coexistence, and universal brotherhood (e.g.,
Key Theories of Development and Citizenship Rights
Theories of Development and Underdevelopment
Development is a complex and contested concept that carries different meanings in different contexts. Broadly, it refers to the process through which societies improve their economic, political, and social conditions. It is often linked to economic growth, political democracy, modernization, and improvement in human well-being. However, over time, several scholars have proposed different approaches to understanding development, depending on how they view
Read MoreUS Gun Policy, Children’s Rights, and the Impact of Globalization
Source I: Political Cartoon and Gun Culture Criticism
The political cartoon depicts a “Back To School SALE” sign in bright yellow at a gun store, promoting firearms as if they were school stationery. This powerfully criticizes the normalized gun culture and the easy accessibility of weapons, even for children. The source highlights how other countries, and even some people within the U.S., criticize American politics and culture regarding gun rights, particularly due to concerns over children’s safety
Read MoreEvolution of Economic Philosophy: From Smith to Keynes
Adam Smith and Economic Liberalism
Scientists and philosophers have long sought to identify the characteristics of a natural order applicable to human thought and politics. Adam Smith posited that this natural order manifests as economic liberalism.
Key Principles of Adam Smith’s Economic Liberalism
- Inner Order (Small State): Smith advocated for a limited state with four primary functions:
- Defense
- Justice
- Foreign Policy
- Public Administration
Distinctive Features of the UK Constitution
A constitution establishes the fundamental principles upon which the government of a state is organized and defines the relationship between its people and the government. The Constitution of the United Kingdom is unique in nature and stands as one of the oldest in the world.
The following are the salient features of the UK Constitution:
Unwritten Nature
The British Constitution is largely unwritten, meaning it has not been codified into a single document. However, this does not imply that all its
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