Date of Award

5-2014

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Political Science

Committee

Not specified

Abstract

Rapid modernization has throughout history presented unique challenges for developing countries. Generally judged to be a good thing--but if too rapid--modernization can strain a government if that governmental system is unable to keep up. Historically concrete social classes begin to blur or shift as massive capital investments are injected--often unequally. Proliferation of the middle class is commonly seen as a country modernizes quickly; with the new middleclass comes rising expectations and modern demands on government. Social programs, infrastructure, political and social equality and general societal advancements are all expected to increase at roughly the same pace as the economy. Social strata may begin comparing their relative wellbeing to that of their regional or global counterparts; if perceived as being less well off, societal discontent is more likely (social media and the technology revolution have greatly facilitated this).

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