Has the Apple Fallen Very Far From the Tree? An Assessment of Old Modernization Theory and the New Human Security Approach

Abstract

In comparing development approaches, this paper argues that the human security doctrine, while an improvement on the modernization approach in theoretically significant ways, ultimately means a continuation of the modernist status quo when applied practically on an international scale. The paper compares the theory behind them, arguing that human security is preferable. It then delves into their practical application, and after covering the practice of modernization theory, demonstrates how the vagueness of the human security approach in practical terms, ultimately allows global institutions to safely adopt it only rhetorically, while continuing to follow the modernist status quo. In conclusion, the paper argues that academics and policy-makers must be made aware of the dangerous similarities between old modernization theory and the new human security approach to development, and learn to avoid repetition of past missteps.

Enfaisant comparaison entre diverses théories de développement, cette dissertation propose que la doctrine de sécurité humaine signifie en pratique une perpétuation des préceptes modernistes. La discussion avance les mérites de la théorie de sécurité humaine. Cependant, en analyse pratique, I’imprécision de cette théorie empêche les institutions globales de I'exécuter. En adoptant la rhétorique de sécurité humaine, ces institutions maintiennent néanmoins des perspectives modernistes. Pour éviter les méprises historiques des théories modernistes, les académiques et les politiciens doivent prendre conscience des dangereuses similarités entre ces théories traditionnelles et la nouvelle rhétorique de sécurité humaine.