Critical Theories

1
Critical Theories

• Neomarxist and Dependency Theories

2
Marxist inspired theorists argue

• Principal conflict between rich and poor
• Trade relations discriminate against poor
• Legacy of colonialism works against poor
• Poverty and inequality persist in countries of
  South

3
Influential Marxist-inspired theories

• World System Theory
• Dependency Theory

4
World System Theory

• 3rd World supplier of raw materials
• Industrialized regions manufacture goods

• Periphery
• Core

5
Dependency Theory

• Poor states trapped in a system of exploitation
• They have huge need to borrow capital making
  them dependent
• Local capitalist class complicit
• Links between local capitalists underdeveloped
  state apparatus multinational corporations

6
Why Periphery Poor in Post-Colonial era?

• People with expertise fled after independence.
• Brain Drain
• Colonial economy difficult to transform

7
Dependency Theory Assumptions

• The most important actors economic interests and
  social classes.
• The state is an instrument of the ruling classes.
• Since revolution unlikely push for major reform
  in domestic and international systems.