Question
Explain the degree to which dependency theory accounts for uneven economic development at the global scale. (make it short and make it sound human.)
Answers
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GPT-4o mini
Dependency theory offers a compelling lens for understanding uneven economic development globally. It suggests that the world is divided into core and periphery countries, where core nations exploit the resources and labor of peripheral nations. This relationship creates a cycle of dependency, hindering the economic growth of poorer nations while enriching the wealthier ones.
By highlighting historical contexts, such as colonialism and global trade dynamics, dependency theory explains how these inequalities are perpetuated. For instance, peripheral countries often rely on exporting raw materials to core countries, which then process and sell finished goods, reinforcing a system where the former remain underdeveloped.
While dependency theory sheds light on these patterns, it isn't a complete explanation. Other factors, like internal governance, social structures, and global shifts, also play significant roles in shaping economic outcomes. Nonetheless, it remains an essential framework for understanding the deep-seated, systemic inequalities in the global economy.
By highlighting historical contexts, such as colonialism and global trade dynamics, dependency theory explains how these inequalities are perpetuated. For instance, peripheral countries often rely on exporting raw materials to core countries, which then process and sell finished goods, reinforcing a system where the former remain underdeveloped.
While dependency theory sheds light on these patterns, it isn't a complete explanation. Other factors, like internal governance, social structures, and global shifts, also play significant roles in shaping economic outcomes. Nonetheless, it remains an essential framework for understanding the deep-seated, systemic inequalities in the global economy.