Casey French
This week, we discussed about three theories and applied it to the documentary "Solar Mamas". Modernization Theory is a unidirectional approach to become Western. Dependency Theory refers to a capitalist world where there is winners and loser. World-systems Theory categorizes the world into three zones: core, semi-periphery, and periphery. All of these theories relate to the documentary, because education of Jordan women in India is linked to these perspectives. The Dependency Theory contradicts the Modernization Theory, because it explains that there are multiple directions that a nation can take to become Western. I argue that the women of Jordan are bringing back the knowledge of solar energy to better their situation. It is a step toward modernity, but it is not an absolute. The World-Systems Theory also relates to the documentary because the core, "Western" countries supply the resources to countries in the semi-periphery. By doing so, India was able to educate many Jordan women, who live in the periphery. They are all interconnected. Inequality is a clear theme in "Solar Mamas". Men have control of all facets of Jordan's society. They can make decisions, act independently, have multiple spouses, and dictate their women. It was interesting how she transformed from a submissive wife to one that acted confidently and defied her husband, despite threats of divorce. The only theory I have difficulty with is Modernization Theory...mostly because it's very narrow-minded. Of course, there are multiple ways to reach "civilized" or "developed". I guess it depends on what criteria each nation considers to be "Western". Maybe the "Western" route to modernity is flawed. We all live different realities.
Here is a short clip of the film directors explaining how addressing these issues promotes global awareness. Getting the message of sustainability out to the world ties with the concept of interconnectiveness.
0 comments:
Post a Comment