Global Development

What the resources cover

The core of this unit is the set of big theories. The mind maps cover modernisation theory, dependency theory, World Systems theory, traditional Marxism and neo-liberalism. Separate maps look at Rostow's five stages, Frank's core and periphery, and Wallerstein's three-tiered world, where countries can move backwards and forwards over time.

Other resources look at poverty and what to do about it. Look for Causes of Poverty, Aid and Debt, Poverty Reduction Strategies, NGOs and Millennium Development Goals. There are also maps on gender, including Women in Development, and on settler colonialism in the work of Rob Steven.

Where to start

1. Open the first mind map, GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT, for the overall picture of the theories.
2. Move to the single-theory maps, such as Rostow (1960) - Modernisation Theory, then Frank and Wallerstein.
3. Read the matching notes, such as Modernising the World - Notes and Underdevelopment & Dependency - Notes.
4. Add the topic maps on poverty, aid, gender and Post-Development Theory.

Using maps, flashcards and quizzes together

Use a map to see how ideas connect, then turn to flashcards to fix the terms. There are decks on world systems theory, modernisation theory, and neo-liberal theories, plus A2 sociology decks on theories and theorists, terminology and evaluation. Then try the Global Development quiz or the Poverty and Development Facts and Theory quiz. Notice which theory you muddle, go back to its map and try again.

Where it sits

This unit belongs to the strand Global Society and Social Change within Sociology. Some resources mention A-level Sociology and GCSE Geography, so check that a resource suits your course before relying on it.

Next step

Pick one theory, work through its map and flashcards, then make your own summary to compare with the community versions.