Blackwell Reference Online

Extract

The development of the global economy since the sixteenth century – especially as it has accelerated since the explosion of the Industrial Revolution at the end of the eighteenth century – has, to a very large extent, provided the context and the impetus for the rise of modern revolutionary protests. Essential conceptualizations for understanding this process have involved the interlinked notions of imperialism (defined here as economic expansion beyond the borders of a nation into other regions, often economically less developed, in order to secure markets, raw materials, and investment opportunities) and capitalist development. Such concepts have evolved as part of the Marxist theoretical tradition – although they have also influenced, and been influenced by, theorists and observers functioning outside of that framework. Especially since the realities being dealt with are incredibly complex, quite dynamic, and relatively fluid, it should not be surprising that there have been significant differences (including among many relating to the Marxist tradition) on how best to understand the realities, and on the adequacy or proper use of one or another theorization. Nonetheless, certain continuities in analysis can be traced that appear to have value for understanding the contexts within which protests and revolutions have emerged. Examining these concepts helps to shed light, ... log in or subscribe to read full text