Difference between Modernization and Westernization | Anthropology Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Modernisation

• Modernisation involves the replacement of sacred revelation(sacred reality) with the help of enlightenment in secular guidelines of human societies.
• There are many divisions such as social, psychological state, culture, economy, etc. of modernisation.
• At some points, modernisation is essentially based on the terms “a rationalist or positivist spirit”.
• Modernisation is also known as the process of social change in a society under development compared to developed societies.
• Modernisation is an idea in the circle of sociologies that alludes to the process in which society experiences industrialisation, urbanisation, and other social changes that change people’s lives.
• Modernisation is a facet of culture change that refers to a model of an evolutionary transition from a ‘pre-modern’ or ‘traditional’ to a ‘modern’ society.
• Modernisation aims at the political transformation of a social, economically developed society.
• Modernisation includes secularisation, which refers to a society free from religious orthodoxy.

Positive Effects of Modernisation

• Modernisation help societies in the development procedure because
  • It also includes the development of technology and infrastructure
  • It provides better living, better learning, and a better lifestyle to the people of the society
• Modernisation provides a way of achieving the dream, and it helps people live in a society that is healthy, educated, free from social evils, etc.

Westernisation

• Westernisation is the imitation of western societies or countries by non-western societies and countries.
• In other words, westernisation is known as a sub-process of modernisation.
• Westernisation is the adoption or the acceptance of the practice of the culture of European countries or societies by countries and societies in other parts of the world.
• Westernisation means the follow-up of everything in a systematic order, and everything should be planned, and there must be safety insurance from the side of authorities and the government.
• Westernisation is a very secure way of living a life where everything is planned and systematically arranged from the beginning. It is a situation where cultural and social security activities are highly influenced by the Planed Structure framed by private and public policies in the country.
• European people’s lives were considered superior to those of people living in other countries. Therefore, people adopted western culture to show themselves as superior to the past.
• Westernisation, especially Americanisation, is the most secure way of living a life where there is no issue related to financial instability, political instability, social instability, and any difficulties that hamper the quality of life and living for the general public.
• Nowadays, westernisation is growing its influence worldwide because of the presence of some thinkers who think westernisation and modernisation are equal terms.

Positive Effects of Westernisation

• Westernisation helps in the globalisation of the economy and creates more effective ways to produce goods and services.
• Westernisation helps modernise medical practices, which results in an extension of life expectancy.

Modernisation and Westernisation: Difference

Conclusion

Both modernisation and westernisation are processes that lead to social, economic, and cultural changes in a society. While modernisation focuses on the overall development and transformation of traditional societies into modern ones, westernisation is more about the adoption and imitation of western culture and practices by non-western societies. Both processes have their positive aspects, such as improved living standards, better education, and advancements in technology and medicine. However, it is essential not to equate modernisation with westernisation, as they have distinct characteristics and impacts on societies. Ultimately, the key to a better future lies in embracing the positive aspects of both modernisation and westernisation, while remaining cautious of potential negative consequences and preserving the unique cultural identities of individual societies.