dependence theory

Dependence theory is a social science concept that explains how developing countries often remain economically dependent on wealthy, industrialized nations. It argues that resource-rich or less-developed nations tend to export raw materials and rely on imported manufactured goods, which benefits the global core countries while limiting the growth of the periphery countries. This relationship creates a cycle where the developing nations stay dependent and underdeveloped because their economic systems are shaped to serve the interests of the more powerful nations, hindering their own self-sustaining development.