The process of adapting something to modern needs, ideas, or methods. The transformation from traditional to contemporary practices or systems.
From French moderne (from Latin modernus 'just now, current') plus the suffix -ization indicating a process. The word gained prominence during the Industrial Revolution when societies began systematically updating traditional practices. The concept became central to 20th-century development theory.
Modernization carries an implicit value judgment that 'newer' equals 'better', reflecting Western linear concepts of progress that aren't universal across cultures. The word encapsulates one of humanity's most significant challenges - balancing innovation with tradition while determining what truly constitutes improvement.
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