The Great Divergence refers to a historical phenomenon that occurred during the early modern period, specifically from the 18th century onwards, and marked a significant divergence in economic and technological development between the Western world, primarily Europe and North America, and the rest of the world. This period witnessed a growing disparity in terms of economic growth, technological advancements, political institutions, and living standards between the Western powers and other regions.
The concept of the Great Divergence was popularized by economic historians, such as Kenneth Pomeranz and Eric Jones, who sought to explain the reasons behind this divergence. Several factors contributed to this divergence:
1. Industrial Revolution: The Industrial Revolution, which started in Britain in the late 18th century and later spread to other Western countries, played a crucial role in the Great Divergence. The invention of machinery, advancements in agriculture, and the rise of factories led to increased productivity and economic growth. The Western countries experienced significant technological advancements and achieved higher levels of industrialization, resulting in increased wealth and living standards.
2. Colonialism and Global Trade: Western powers, particularly European nations, engaged in extensive colonial expansion during this period. The establishment of colonies provided access to abundant natural resources, cheap labor, and new markets. This facilitated the growth of global trade networks and contributed to the accumulation of wealth in Western countries. The exploitation of colonies and the transatlantic slave trade played significant roles in fueling Western economic growth.
3. Scientific and Intellectual Advancements: The Enlightenment, an intellectual and cultural movement of the 17th and 18th centuries, emphasized reason, empirical observation, and scientific inquiry. Western countries witnessed remarkable scientific advancements in various fields, including physics, chemistry, medicine, and engineering. These advancements enabled technological innovations and laid the foundation for further industrial progress.
4. Political and Institutional Factors: The Western world also benefited from stable political institutions and legal frameworks that protected property rights, fostered entrepreneurship, and encouraged innovation. The development of representative governments, rule of law, and constitutional frameworks provided a conducive environment for economic growth. In contrast, many non-Western regions were characterized by unstable political systems, weak institutions, and lack of property rights, hindering economic development.
5. Cultural and Social Factors: Some scholars argue that cultural and social factors also played a role in the Great Divergence. The Protestant work ethic, individualism, and the spirit of capitalism, as emphasized by sociologist Max Weber, were seen as influential factors in promoting economic growth in Western societies. Moreover, the spread of education, literacy, and scientific knowledge within Western societies fostered a culture of innovation and intellectual curiosity.
It is important to note that the Great Divergence was not a linear process, and the experiences of different regions varied. Some regions, such as Japan, experienced their own processes of modernization and caught up with the West in terms of economic development. However, the overall trend of increasing economic disparities between the Western world and other regions persisted.
The implications of the Great Divergence are still evident in the contemporary global landscape. The economic and technological advantages gained by the Western world during this period continue to shape the global distribution of wealth, power, and influence. The legacy of the Great Divergence raises important questions about inequality, development, and the role of historical processes in shaping the modern world.
Subscribe on YouTube - NotesWorld
For PDF copy of Solved Assignment
Any University Assignment Solution
.webp)
