Антропология
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Modernization, Marxist, Dependency and Alternative Theories of Development Communication: An Appraisal and Critical Review

Suleiman M. Yar’Adua, Eric Msughter Aondover*, Perpetua Ogechi Aondover

The concept of development is very complex thus, generates abundance of literature review and therefore spawns different and conflicting interpretations from the dominant paradigm theories of development-modernization, Marxist, dependency and alternative approach. This paper intends to critically appraise and review the concept of development as defined by the four dominant schools and their conceptual and historical relationship. The paper examines the convergent and divergent views that necessitate the development or underdevelopment of a nation or society. The shortcomings or inherent biases of one school led to the emergence of another. The paper discovers the existence of different internal arguments in theories. Similarly, the alternative approach emerges to address some developmental challenges (environment peace) that were either not conceived in the conceptualization stage or were myopically overlooked by the tripartite. Furthermore, the paper reveals how the modernization, marxists and dependency theory of development failed to address many challenges of development especially in third world countries where Africa is also located. Therefore the need for another new theory such as African renaissance theory to suit Africans and contain its present challenges is imperative.