The Dependency Theory Of Samir Amin

Amin's theory of dependency arises from the background of capitalist economic crisis and the unequal development of the international economy in the era of economic globalization.On the basis of inheriting Marxist theory,ECLAC and Frank's theory of underdevelopment,Amin takes the elaboration of the capitalist world system and peripheral capitalism as the theoretical starting point and the unequal exchange theory as the core content.Amin believes that in the capitalist world system,the central expansion of central capitalism for the purpose of maximizing profits has formed a periphery that is attached to the center.The center conducts asymmetric domination and unequal exchanges in the peripheral areas.In order to get rid of the situation attached to the central countries,peripheral countries and regions must implement the "decoupling" strategy,and must adhere to the development strategy and the specific national conditions of the country.With the development of globalization,although the peripheral countries have divided into active peripheral countries and impoverished peripheral countries,the "decoupling" theory is still not outdated.The "success" of East Asia is the best example.Amin's theory of dependency has both rationality and limitations.On the one hand,it enriches and develops Marxism and makes Marxism more contemporary;at the same time,it perfects the theory of world history and provides enlightenment for the development of peripheral countries.On the other hand,because it is methodologically dependent on external determinism,Amin's “decoupling” strategy cannot fundamentally resolve the dependence of peripheral countries on central countries.Its “socialism” is far removed from Marx's socialism.In addition,Amin's dependency theory has certain practical implications for China's development.