Global Development — AQA A-Level Sociology
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Global Development explained
This topic explores the sociological study of global development, focusing on the nature of development and underdevelopment, global inequality, and the influence of globalisation on the relationships between societies.
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It examines the roles of various actors in development strategies and the impact of development on social, economic, and environmental factors.
What to demonstrate
- Sociological explanations of development and underdevelopment
- The nature and extent of global inequality
- The influence of globalisation on cultural, political, and economic relationships
Show all 10 objectives
- The role of transnational corporations (TNCs) in development
- The role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in development
- The role of international agencies in development
- The impact of aid and trade on development
- The relationship between development and industrialisation, urbanisation, and the environment
- The impact of war and conflict on development
- Development in relation to employment, education, health, demographic change, and gender
Global Development exam tips
Topic Overview
Global Development in AQA A-Level Sociology examines the social, economic, and political processes that shape development across the world. It critically evaluates traditional and contemporary theories of development, such as modernisation theory, dependency theory, and world systems theory, and explores how global inequalities are maintained and challenged. The topic also investigates the role of international organisations, transnational corporations, and social movements in shaping development outcomes, with a focus on issues like poverty, health, education, and gender inequality.
Understanding Global Development is crucial because it connects local experiences to global structures, helping students see how historical colonialism, neoliberal policies, and globalisation impact different societies. This topic fits within the wider Sociology curriculum by linking to stratification, globalisation, and social change, and it encourages students to think critically about power, agency, and justice. It also prepares students for contemporary debates about sustainable development, climate justice, and global governance.
Students will engage with key case studies, such as the rise of East Asian economies, the impact of structural adjustment programmes in Africa, and the role of microfinance in empowering women. By the end of the topic, students should be able to evaluate competing explanations for global inequality and assess the effectiveness of different development strategies, from top-down aid to grassroots movements.
Key Concepts
- →Modernisation theory: Argues that development occurs through a linear path from traditional to modern societies, with Western countries as models. Criticised for being ethnocentric and ignoring historical exploitation.
- →Dependency theory: Contends that underdevelopment is a result of the exploitation of peripheral nations by core capitalist countries, creating a cycle of dependency. Key thinkers include Andre Gunder Frank and Immanuel Wallerstein.
- →World systems theory: Developed by Wallerstein, it divides the world into core, semi-periphery, and periphery, arguing that the global capitalist system perpetuates inequality. Emphasises the role of transnational corporations and international financial institutions.
- →Neoliberal globalisation: Refers to the spread of free-market policies, deregulation, and privatisation, often promoted by the IMF and World Bank. Critics argue it exacerbates inequality and undermines local economies.
- →Sustainable development: Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations, balancing economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection. Central to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Marking Points
- Sociological explanations of development and underdevelopment
- The nature and extent of global inequality
- The influence of globalisation on cultural, political, and economic relationships
- The role of transnational corporations (TNCs) in development
- The role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in development
- The role of international agencies in development
- The impact of aid and trade on development
- The relationship between development and industrialisation, urbanisation, and the environment
- The impact of war and conflict on development
- Development in relation to employment, education, health, demographic change, and gender
Examiner Tips
- 💡Ensure you apply the core themes of socialisation, culture and identity, and social differentiation, power and stratification to this topic.
- 💡Use contemporary examples to illustrate theoretical points regarding global inequality.
- 💡Draw links between global development and other topics studied in the specification, such as work, poverty and welfare or the media.
- 💡Engage in theoretical debate regarding the different perspectives on development.
- 💡Use specific examples to illustrate theories. For instance, when discussing dependency theory, refer to the role of TNCs in exploiting labour in Bangladesh's garment industry. This shows application and depth.
- 💡Evaluate theories by considering their strengths and limitations. For example, modernisation theory may explain some success stories like South Korea, but it fails to account for the negative impacts of colonialism. Always balance your arguments.
- 💡Link to contemporary issues, such as the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on global inequality or the climate crisis. This demonstrates awareness of current affairs and can earn you higher marks for context and relevance.
Common Mistakes
- Misconception: Development is purely economic growth. Correction: Development also includes improvements in health, education, political freedom, and gender equality. The Human Development Index (HDI) measures these broader dimensions.
- Misconception: All countries follow the same path to development. Correction: Modernisation theory suggests this, but dependency and world systems theories show that historical context and global power structures create different trajectories. For example, former colonies face structural barriers that Western countries did not.
- Misconception: Aid always helps development. Correction: While aid can be beneficial, it can also create dependency, fuel corruption, or be tied to conditions that harm local economies. Critics argue for trade justice and debt cancellation instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between modernisation theory and dependency theory?
Modernisation theory sees development as a linear process where traditional societies become modern by adopting Western values and institutions. It blames internal factors like culture for underdevelopment. Dependency theory, in contrast, argues that underdevelopment is caused by external exploitation by core capitalist countries. It sees the global economy as structured to keep peripheral nations poor. For example, modernisation might praise foreign investment, while dependency theory would criticise it for extracting profits.
How do transnational corporations (TNCs) affect global development?
TNCs can have both positive and negative effects. Positively, they bring jobs, technology, and investment to developing countries. For instance, Nike's factories in Vietnam provide employment. However, critics argue TNCs exploit cheap labour, avoid taxes, and damage the environment. They also create a 'race to the bottom' where countries compete to offer the lowest wages and weakest regulations. Dependency theorists see TNCs as a tool of neocolonialism, keeping developing nations dependent on foreign capital.
What are the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?
The SDGs are a set of 17 global goals adopted by the UN in 2015 to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030. They include targets like no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, gender equality, and climate action. Unlike the earlier Millennium Development Goals, the SDGs apply to all countries, not just developing ones. They are important for A-Level Sociology because they represent a global consensus on development priorities, but critics say they are too ambitious and lack enforcement mechanisms.
Is globalisation making development more equal or more unequal?
There is debate. Some argue globalisation has lifted millions out of poverty, especially in countries like China and India, by integrating them into global markets. However, others point out that inequality within and between countries has risen. The richest 1% own more than the bottom 50%, and many developing countries remain trapped in low-value production. World systems theory suggests globalisation reinforces the dominance of core countries. Overall, globalisation has created winners and losers, and its impact depends on a country's position in the global economy.
What role do international organisations like the IMF and World Bank play in development?
The IMF and World Bank provide loans and advice to developing countries, often with conditions like privatisation, deregulation, and austerity (structural adjustment programmes). Supporters say these policies stabilise economies and promote growth. Critics, however, argue they harm the poor by cutting public services and increasing inequality. For example, in the 1980s, SAPs in Africa led to reduced spending on health and education. Today, these organisations face calls for reform to prioritise human development over debt repayment.
How can I evaluate different theories of development in my exam?
To evaluate theories, consider their strengths, weaknesses, and evidence. For modernisation theory, note its ethnocentrism and failure to explain persistent poverty. For dependency theory, acknowledge its deterministic view and inability to account for successful NICs like South Korea. Use examples: South Korea's development challenges dependency theory, while Sub-Saharan Africa's struggles support it. Also, consider feminist critiques that both theories ignore gender. Finally, link to contemporary issues like the debt crisis or climate change to show critical thinking.