Dependency Theory Dr Paromita Chakraborty Surendranath College The
Dependency Theory Dr. Paromita Chakraborty, Surendranath College
§ The theory is explained in Andre Gunder Franks’s book ‘ Dependency Theory the development of under- development. ’ Gunder frank stated that the developing nations have failed to develop because the western nations have deliberately underdeveloped them. He called the developed nations ‘ core’and the developing nations ‘ periphery. ’ § Frank stated that during the 16 th century the countries of asia, africa and Latin America had an unequal and exploitative relationship between the powerful European nations. The wealth from these continents flew to Europe helping them to kickstart their industries. The colonies were hence seen a place from which wealth and resources could be extracted.
§ Even after the independence of the colonies the European nations continued to see the developing nations as sources of raw materials and cheap labor. § Frank stated that the developed nations had a vested Dependency theory ( Cont. ) interest in keeping these nations poor so they can exploit their weakness. This is because the development of the poor countries threatens the dominance of the west. § Today exploitation does not continue directly but through the dominance of multinational corporations who exploit the cheap labor of poor countries, this process is called today as ‘ neo- colonialism. ’
- Slides: 3