Final answer:
The correct answer to the question is 'Technological advancement' (Option B), as it has historically empowered countries with superior technology to dominate others less advanced, influencing imperialistic and colonial conquests.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the factors that can lead to higher-scoring countries, in terms of socioeconomic and technological metrics, to conquer or dominate lower-scoring ones. Among the provided options, 'Technological advancement' (Option B) is historically known to play a crucial role in a country's ability to conquer others. Technological innovation gave rise to the industrial revolution, superior weaponry, and afforded protection against diseases in foreign lands, thereby facilitating imperialism and colonialism. This resulted in the domination of countries that harnessed technology effectively over those with lesser technological capabilities.
Furthermore, technological advancements allow high-income countries to offset the diminishing returns of investments in physical and human capital, maintaining their competitive edge via continuous innovation. This concept contrasts with economic convergence, where low-income countries can experience rapid growth by adopting existing technologies without needing to innovate, as proposed by the 'advantages of backwardness' theory. However, economic and political institutions in high-income countries often foster an environment conducive for ongoing technological progression, thereby sustaining their superior positions.