1. Modernization is a process whereby a country transforms from being an underdeveloped country to a more modern society by letting go of old cultures that are seen as backward. this theory argues that "third world countries fail to modernize because they do not have the same values as first world countries which can lead to modernization".

• There are 5 stages of growth that countries have to follow in the process of modernization, namely; 1. the traditional society, 2. pre-conditions for take off, 3. take off, 4. the drive to maturity and lastly, high mass consumption. this stages are called Rostow's mordenisation theory.
• The characteristics of modernization are urban migration, an increase in a high standard of living, high literacy, political and economic freedom and food security.

2. Dependecy theory  this theory argues that poor countries are poor because they are exploited by first world countries and this exploitation has been going on from the times of colonialism.