FREE IGNOU BSOG-173 SOLVED ASSIGNMENT 2023-24

2. The Dependency Theory of Social Development:

The dependency theory emerged in the 1960s as a response to the dominant modernization approach, which assumed that all countries could follow a linear path of development by adopting Western models. The dependency theorists, mostly from Latin America, argued that the global economic system perpetuated underdevelopment in certain regions, keeping them in a state of dependency on developed nations. Here are the key concepts and principles of the dependency theory:

1. Core-Periphery Model: The theory describes the world as divided into a core of advanced industrialized nations and a periphery of less-developed nations. The core countries, through historical processes of colonization and exploitation, dominate the periphery economically and politically. This relationship hinders the development of the periphery, as it remains dependent on the core for technology, capital, and market access.
2. Exploitation and Unequal Exchange: Dependency theorists assert that the international division of labor leads to unequal exchange between the core and periphery. Periphery nations are often exporters of primary commodities and cheap labor, while the core nations export manufactured goods and technology at higher prices. This unequal exchange contributes to the perpetuation of poverty and underdevelopment in the periphery.
3. Capital Flight and Debt: The dependency theory explains how multinational corporations and financial institutions exploit the periphery’s resources, leading to capital flight. Additionally, many periphery nations accumulate substantial external debts to finance development projects, but debt servicing becomes burdensome, diverting resources away from social welfare and economic development.
4. Underdevelopment Trap: The dependency theory suggests that underdeveloped nations are caught in a cycle of poverty and dependence, unable to break free from the structural constraints imposed by the core nations and the global economic system.
5. Import Substitution Industrialization (ISI): In response to the dependency theory’s critique, some periphery nations adopted ISI strategies. This approach aimed to reduce dependency by promoting domestic industries to produce goods that were previously imported. However, ISI often faced challenges due to inefficiencies, lack of technology, and protectionist policies.
6. Revolution and Social Change: Dependency theorists argued that breaking the cycle of dependency requires radical social and political change. They advocated for national sovereignty, resource nationalization, land reforms, and other measures to reduce external control and promote self-sufficiency.

Critics of the dependency theory argue that it oversimplifies complex global dynamics and neglects internal factors that influence development. Moreover, some countries in the periphery have managed to achieve significant economic growth despite the constraints of the global economic system.

In conclusion, the dependency theory provides a critical perspective on the factors that perpetuate underdevelopment in certain regions of the world. It highlights the power imbalances and historical legacies that affect the development trajectory of nations. While not without criticism, the theory has contributed to a deeper understanding of the complexities of global development and the need for more equitable and just international relations.