Comparative Modernization Theory and Glocalization Theory

Abstract

This paper attempts to explore the common theme of the issue “How is theory formation possible?” in terms of the case study of the articulation of comparative modernization theory and glocalization theory. One can grasp comparative modernization theory and, as its fundamental principle, functionalism from the view-point of the theory classification proposed by Funabashi (1982) and Kosaka (1998). Recently, however, it is said that the combination has been destructed (Sato 1998).It has been a long while since sociologists have discussed the multiplicity of the fundamental principles of sociological theory. To a certain extent, however, multiplicity is a built-in component of the discipline. Meanwhile, as a de facto phenomenon, new and attractive “guidance (sensitizing) ideas” (such as globalization, risk society, and so on) have been successively studied by many sociologists. This paper attempts to delineate the process of the theory formation in terms of actual esquisse or exercise in the articulation or combination of comparative modernization theory with glocalization theory as an attractive “guidance idea.” The following points summarize the core conclusions of this paper. (1) Regardless of the fundamental principles involved, it is advisable to suppose the existence of reciprocal movements between theory and empirical research and that these movements involve a helical development. It is significant for glocalization theory to be articulated with comparative modernization theory, which is a foundational proposition (or a middle-range theory) that is considerably more grounded in empirical studies. (2) The articulation process involves the internal transformation of both theories (the reconstruction of both comparative modernization theory and glocalization theory). (3) This articulation can sometimes prompt the reconstruction of theoretical tradition (which, in this paper, refers to human rights that go beyond citizenship in the glocalized world).