Final answer:
Modernization theory claims that the main causes of poverty involve culture and technology. It suggests that embracing modernization can lead to economic development and the establishment of democratic institutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Modernization theory posits that the main causes of poverty involve culture and technology. According to this theory, low-income countries lack industrialization, which hinders their economic development. By embracing modernization through adopting technological advancements and cultural values that promote hard work and success, these countries can improve their global economic standing (Armer and Katsillis 2010). Modernization theory suggests that economic growth promotes structural changes in society, leading to increased political representation and the establishment of democratic institutions (Chapter 1). However, it is challenging to establish a causal mechanism between economic growth and democratic institutions (Chapter 1).