Globalization and Citizens’ Support for Global Capitalism

Abstract

World-systems theory emphasizes the unequal structure of the world economy. Relying on world-systems theory as an analytical framework, this study examines how globalization differently affects citizens’ perceptions of global capitalism in the core, semi-periphery, and periphery. Statistical analyses relying on the Pew Global Attitudes Project, 2002, generate findings that are consistent with world-systems theory. While globalization positively affects citizens’ evaluations of global capitalism in the core, globalization undermines citizens’ support for global capitalism in the periphery. By dissecting the relationship between globalization and citizens’ perceptions of global capitalism, this study contributes to our understanding of globalization.