Model A vs. Model B

I believe that Model A has glaring flaws. The West was able to industrialize so quickly largely due to the abundance of resources that were obtained from imperialized nations. However, in the acquisition of these resources, many western powers did substantial damage to the nations they occupied. Enslavement and exploitation of the native populations left a large scar for many imperialized countrys. the so-called “catching up” model is, I believe, apptly named. These nations were left no choice but to evolve to the new modern world so as to remain not only relevant but in existence. Model B could be considered a more palatable name in the current political climate of fragmentation, in which many marginalized peoples are starting to wonder why history is painting such a rosy picture of the events that set them back so far.  Model B, “Exploitation- Survival” sounds to many like a more appropriate title then.

I believe that both have elements of truth. Model A addresses the industrialization of the modern world. Europeans during this time did make many great advances in ideology and in technology. I feel as though Model A is then written form the view of a westerner, whereas Model B resonates more with countries who feel as though they were victimized during the expansion of the west. I believe that any good historian should try to find a Model C, one that then addresses both sides.

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