Sociology of Development

Contents: Preface. 1. Sociology of development. 2. Development: concept and paradigms. 3. Theories of development and underdevelopment. 4. Paths and agencies of development. 5. Industrial entrepreneurship. 6. Structure, culture and development. 7. Technology and development. 8. Urbanization and economic development. 9. Economic reforms and change: Indian context. 10. Modernization. Bibliography. Index.

The term ‘development’ was used in the beginning to refer only to economic growth. Afterwards, it passed through paradigmatic shifts to assume an inclusive conceptual status in which are merged the processes of development as taking place in economic, social and political aspects for human society. Realistic development, which refers to human and societal development along with consistent economic growth. The characteristics of development are akin to those of modernization. Both determine each other. A society would not proceed on the path of development unless it adopts what are considered as modern values. Today, the planning for development is concerned no only with augmenting quality production but is also ensuring sustainability of development.

Sociology of development is the field of study which tends to understand he interface of society and economy. It attempts to explore how both cultural structural development and economic development influence each other. Facilitators and inhibitors of development are identified by this discipline. The role of state is also examined.