Does Tourism Sap Incentive to Modernize? Revisiting the Nexus Against Recent Critics
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Purpose: This paper critically examines whether tourism undermines or promotes modernization, analyzing its economic, social, cultural, and technological effects. The study synthesizes theoretical perspectives and international case studies to assess tourism's influence on modernization trajectories, considering governance structures and policy implications for sustainable development.Method: A comparative literature review from 1970-2025 integrates theories like Modernization and Dependency Theory with empirical evidence from countries such as China, Botswana, Spain, Indonesia, Fiji, India, Ukraine, and Bangladesh, focusing on the roles of local agency and governance.Findings: Tourism’s impact on modernization is complex and varies by context. The notion that tourism invariably diminishes modernization incentives is unsubstantiated; outcomes depend on governance, policies, and local engagement.Practical Implications: Effective governance and inclusive policies are vital for ensuring tourism supports sustainable development and modernization. Community participation helps maximize benefits and address drawbacks, aligning tourism with local values and needs.Originality/Scientific Contribution: This study provides a systematic, multi-contextual review of tourism’s role in modernization, challenging simplistic claims and highlighting the importance of governance and local agency in shaping outcomes.
Authors: Sedat Yüksel, Hidayet Kışlalı
Institution: Afyon Kocatepe University
Language: Turkish
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7156238309