Modernization

There are many ways that modernization manifests itself in U.S. society. Societal changes are constant and the resulting “progress” is constantly re-shaping our culture. The term “progress” is highly subjective and relative. This implies that society is, in fact, moving forward in a positive direction. People’s basic values and beliefs are constantly changing. Personal choices are becoming more prevalent as a result of the ever-increasing demographic make-up of U.S. society. Furthermore, our citizens are becoming more aware of the future and it’s implications for younger generations. The constant evolution of personal choices, social diversity and awareness can be perceived as progressive in nature. Modernization is the process in which social and economic change is realized through industrial revolution, urbanization and other social changes (Macionis, 2006). Modernization promotes individualism over the unity of traditional communities and encourages rationality, as opposed to traditional beliefs.

The Industrial Revolution is probably the largest single example of change and modernization in the modern age. Lives were changed and behavior patterns were permanently altered for the sake of technological advancement. Wage earning replaced self-sufficiency as agricultural revolution took a back seat. The common laborer experienced both domestic and economic hardships as a result. Social change was achieved a the expense of these early industrial laborers and the hardships they endured.

One example of modernization in the U.S. is the upcoming Presidential election. For the first time in U.S. history we have a viable African American Democratic candidate for the Presidency. This is a distinct reflection of social change as it relates to the nations perception of African Americans and their acceptance. The selection of an African American to represent the Democratic Party in current society is in stark contrast to the brutal conflicts the nation underwent in past generations’ struggle for social equality in the U.S.

Modernization will absolutely continue in the U.S. Modernization is an ongoing part of our evolutionary process that has, and always will be, in perpetual motion. As U.S. society continues to grow in its diversity and demographic build, it is important to realize that modernization is a process of human development. In that process, economic development triggers cultural changes that make individual autonomy, gender equality and racial equality increasingly likely. While the moral complexity and motivation for these changes may be a matter of dispute, these cultural changes will increase nonetheless.

Modernization is not restricted to the U.S. In fact, modernization is a world-wide trend. The nature of modernization is the expansion of human autonomy and choice, and for political freedom and democracy as the consequence of economic development and cultural change. Modernized societies are, as a whole, more powerful than “traditional” societies. Societies that have, and continue to, modernize reap the most benefits of modernization while minimizing the inevitable disadvantages.

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