What motivated imperialism?
The chart on the right shows the economic, political, and cultural justifications for imperialism, or at least according to the source Traditions and Encounters Vol. 2.
Arguably, states use economic justifications as their main reasons for colonizing as the economic benefits and profit outweigh the negatives greatly. As these states move towards industrialization, they more so require raw materials and natural resources, and colonies are a stable source for just so. These colonies also also intended to consume manufactured products and are markets for states to sell their products in, however manufactured goods did not flow to most colonies in large quantities. But the argument for national interest ultimately won over, as many argued that imperialism was crucial for the survival of the states and their societies, even for individuals' fortunes as well (take Cecil Rhodes for example). As a result of imperialism, states would gain wealth, profit, and prestige.
Arguably, states use economic justifications as their main reasons for colonizing as the economic benefits and profit outweigh the negatives greatly. As these states move towards industrialization, they more so require raw materials and natural resources, and colonies are a stable source for just so. These colonies also also intended to consume manufactured products and are markets for states to sell their products in, however manufactured goods did not flow to most colonies in large quantities. But the argument for national interest ultimately won over, as many argued that imperialism was crucial for the survival of the states and their societies, even for individuals' fortunes as well (take Cecil Rhodes for example). As a result of imperialism, states would gain wealth, profit, and prestige.