Topic 1: World Systems Theory Flashcards
What is World Systems Theory, and who is it associated with?
It is a development on dependency theory and has marxist (rather than neo-marxist) roots.
It is associated with Wallerstein and came about in the early 1970s.
How does it differ from Dependency theory?
Dependency theory focussed on the experiences of individual countries.
WST sees the world as consisting of a single, unified capitalism system - modern world system.
What does the modern world system consist of?
Hierarchy:
1 - Core countries (developed, eg USA)
2 - Semi-periphery (some advanced urban sectors, eg Brazil).
3 - Periphery (least developed, eg Ghana).
How did the modern world system come into being?
It came into existence in the 15th and 16th centuries as European trade expanded globally.
How does it agree with dependency theory?
It agrees on how countries are underdeveloped:
They are exploited by external factors, and emphasise economic issues.
What makes world systems theory unique?
It believes the Modern World System is dynamic and flexible: countries can move up and down the hierarchy as capitalism doesn’t respect national borders - capital will move to wherever money can be made. Therefore, the system continually changes as capitalism searches for profit.
