Both dependency and world systems theorists understand the world in terms of a single, unified economic system and assert that the economic system should be the unit of analysis, not individual countries.

Dependency Theory

A theory that suggests developing countries are kept in a state of economic underdevelopment by the exploitative mechanisms of the global capitalist system.

World Systems Theorists

Scholars who argue that global socio-economic systems and relationships between countries shape individual societies, focusing on how historical and modern economic practices influence global inequality.

Economic System

The method by which countries and governments distribute resources and trade goods and services, including capitalism, socialism, and communism.