World-systems theory

Definition

World-systems theory is a sociological framework that examines the global economic system as a complex and interconnected structure where countries and regions occupy different roles in relation to one another. It highlights the relationships between core, semi-peripheral, and peripheral nations, revealing how power and resources are distributed on a global scale. This theory is critical in understanding how transnational religious networks form and adapt within this economic landscape, and how globalization influences religious practices and beliefs across various cultures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. World-systems theory was developed by sociologist Immanuel Wallerstein in the 1970s to explain global inequalities in wealth and power.
2. The theory posits that economic relationships shape social structures and cultural practices, including those related to religion.
3. Transnational religious networks often emerge in response to the inequalities highlighted by world-systems theory, as they seek to connect individuals across borders who share similar beliefs.
4. Religious responses to globalization can be seen as adaptations or resistances to the pressures of a world-system that can marginalize local traditions and values.
5. World-systems theory emphasizes the need for a global perspective when analyzing religious movements, recognizing how local beliefs can be influenced by international economic conditions.

Review Questions

• How does world-systems theory help us understand the formation of transnational religious networks?
  • World-systems theory provides a lens through which we can see how transnational religious networks develop in response to global economic inequalities. By recognizing that core nations often exert influence over peripheral nations, we can understand how religious groups might form connections across borders to support one another. These networks enable shared resources, communication, and solidarity among believers who face similar challenges due to their position within the global economy.
• In what ways do religious groups respond to globalization according to world-systems theory?
  • According to world-systems theory, religious groups respond to globalization by either adapting their practices to fit within a global context or resisting external influences that threaten their traditional beliefs. Some groups may find ways to leverage global connectivity for outreach and support, while others may react against perceived cultural imperialism by reinforcing local traditions. This dynamic illustrates how globalization can simultaneously create opportunities for growth while also posing challenges to local identities.
• Evaluate the implications of world-systems theory on understanding cultural exchanges between religions in a globalized world.
  • World-systems theory encourages us to critically assess how cultural exchanges between religions occur within the framework of global power dynamics. The interactions between core and peripheral nations can lead to the diffusion of certain religious ideas while marginalizing others, ultimately affecting how diverse belief systems engage with one another. By analyzing these exchanges through the lens of world-systems theory, we gain insights into both the potential for enriching dialogue among religions and the risk of homogenization or cultural appropriation driven by unequal power relations.

Related terms

Core Nations: Countries that are economically dominant, technologically advanced, and often exploit resources from peripheral nations to maintain their wealth.

Peripheral Nations: Countries that are economically dependent on core nations, typically characterized by lower levels of industrialization and less access to technology and resources.

Transnationalism: The process through which people, ideas, and practices move across national borders, often resulting in the creation of networks that transcend local contexts.