In world systems, the global economy is a system comprising the association between periphery, semi-periphery, and core countries. Core countries are the most developed both economically and socially. Such countries have a greater influence on periphery nations. Historically, the United States of America falls under the category of semi-periphery countries since, for a long time, European capitalism dominated the global economy. During this period, the core European countries exploited natural and human resources from the USA and other regions to expand their industries and economies. The USA then began to rapidly develop over time compared to other western powers due to industrial growth.
Social and economic changes resulting from the global economy affect the state of a country and trickle down to shaping the quality of its citizens’ lives (Harper & Leicht, 2018). For instance, most developed European industries sourced workers and minerals from the USA population, and because the country did not have many industries of its own by then, there were not many options. They filled the high demand for semi-skilled and cheap labor. Therefore, the life chances of people living in semi-periphery nations concerning their opportunities to move up the social ladder are diminished due to the lack of quality jobs that lead to growth.
Core-periphery relations significantly determine processes in society and the social life of individuals. Core countries create economic conditions for the development of peripheral and semi-peripheral nations (Harper & Leicht, 2018). Economic policies of European countries were applied to America’s economy leading to immense growth. In this way, America rose to be a core country, holding a significant position in the global market. Today, many periphery nations depend on America for their economic and social development.
Reference
Harper, C., Leicht, K. (2018). Exploring social change: America and the world. Routledge Publishers. pp. 16-54.