ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a comparative approach, and especially a reconceptualization of core/periphery relations and the spatial bounding of world-systems to provide a perspective on the incorporation problem. It argues that the problem of systemic linkage and the problem of core/periphery relations should be analytically separated. One important consideration in any case of incorporation is the degree of economic articulation between an expanding world-system and a region that is being absorbed. The chapter noted that the study of incorporation into the modern world-system has emphasized transformations of production over political domination, luxury or prestige-goods trade, or plundering of resources. It points out not to draw some arbitrary line but rather to emphasize the care that must be taken when studying incorporation. The chapter suggests two other areas related to incorporation that requires further specification: problem of frontiers, and the relevance of the types of social groups coming into contact.
