Dependency theory argues that poorer countries are not simply “behind” richer countries. Instead, their underdevelopment is often produced through unequal relationships in the global capitalist system. Andre Gunder Frank argued that development and underdevelopment are connected: wealthy “core” nations develop partly because they extract resources, labour and profits from poorer “peripheral” nations. He described this as a relationship between metropoles and satellites, where wealth flows from the satellite regions to the dominant centres of power. This means former colonies may remain dependent after political independence because they still rely on exporting raw materials, accepting foreign investment, borrowing money, or allowing TNCs to control key industries. Dependency theorists see this as neo-colonialism: control continues through trade, debt, aid, TNCs and international institutions rather than direct empire.
This activity uses fictional nations to help you apply dependency theory to real sociological chains of explanation. You will choose a nation, read its background profile, then build a six-step chain showing how colonial history, raw material exports, low wages, aid, debt, TNCs or unequal trade may reproduce underdevelopment. This tests AO1 knowledge of dependency theory and neo-colonialism, but it is mainly designed to build analysis: the ability to explain how one factor leads to another. This links closely to the AQA Global Development focus on dependency theory, neo-colonialism, aid and trade, TNCs, IGOs and global inequality.
Dependency Theory Chain Reaction
Dependency theory argues that poorer countries can be kept in a dependent position through colonial history, unequal trade, debt, aid conditions and the power of transnational corporations. Choose a fictional nation, read its profile, then build the cause-and-effect chain showing how underdevelopment may be reproduced.
Colonialism
Past control can shape borders, land use, transport systems and export patterns.
Unequal trade
Raw materials may be sold cheaply while manufactured goods are imported at higher prices.
TNCs
Companies may control production, wages, working conditions and profit flows.
Aid and debt
Loans and aid may create dependency, conditions and pressure to cut public spending.
Neo-colonialism
Formal independence exists, but economic power may still remain external.
Choose a fictional nation
Mixed-up cause cards
Build the dependency chain
For more content on GLobal Development, click the link below:
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