Multilateralism and Dependency Theory

Abstract

Abstract This paper situates center-periphery issues at two levels. At the broadest level (world system), it looks at the spectrum of selected dependency theories and the position of George Klay Kieh Jr’s ideas in this spectrum. In this discussion, I will pay especial attention to small states, powers and economies and explain the justifications in the section below. At the intermediate level (compradorial category) of the world system, I examined some area-specific writings on this subject, in particular those related to Asia and Africa but also classical studies of compradorial economies in South America. In reviewing these theories, I identified three major issues for study. First, are dependency theories and the idea of an intermediate compradorial economy in the world system still relevant or important to the study of developing economies? Second, are regional economic bodies in the intermediate space of the world system challenging the dichotomous binary of only center and periphery? Third, if resource supply and primary processing are the comparative advantages of smaller or peripheral states, can regional cooperation help to upgrade the value-added-ness of their economic activities?