A succinct introduction to the history of capitalism by the renowned political theorist.
In this short, highly readable book, the master of world-systems theory provides a succinct anatomy of capitalism over the past five hundred years. Considering the way capitalism has changed and evolved over the centuries, and what has remained constant, he outlines its chief characteristics. In particular, he looks at the emergence and development of a world market, and of labor; in doing so, he argues that capitalism has brought about immiseration in the Global South. As long as they remain within a framework of world capitalism, Wallerstein concludes, the economic and social problems of developing countries will remain unresolved.
Historical Capitalism, published here with its companion essay Capitalist Civilization, is a concise, compelling beginners’ guide to one of the most challenging and influential assessments of capitalism as a world-historic mode of production.
Historical Capitalism
Introduction 5
The Commodification of Everything: Production of Capital 11
The Politics of Accumulation: Struggle for Benefits 45
Truth as Opiate: Rationality and Rationalization 73
Conclusion: On Progress and Transitions 95
Capitalist Civilization
A Balance Sheet 113
Future Prospects 139
Overview
A succinct introduction to the history of capitalism by the renowned political theorist.
In this short, highly readable book, the master of world-systems theory provides a succinct anatomy of capitalism over the past five hundred years. Considering the way capitalism has changed and evolved over the centuries, and what has remained constant, he outlines its chief characteristics. In particular, he looks at the emergence and development of a world market, and of labor; in doing ...