ABSTRACT
World-Systems Analysis (WSA) has a predominant explanation of the dynamics of the modern world system but insulates itself from criticism by claiming it aspires only to be a research perspective. This chapter discusses that taking note of recent contributions and having a more critical view towards the 1960s rediscovery of Marxian political economy will help WSA as a central reference point for explaining the rise of the modern world system. For most WSA authors, the central thrust is criticising the fundamentally inequitable dynamics in the world economy. Although there are often ad-hoc explanations, there is considerable agreement among WSA authors that capitalism drives the world-system through the need of the centre to draw additional resources through the exploitation of a periphery. Stable hierarchies provide an opportunity to conceive of shifts in status as dangerous situations, in WSA called hegemonic crises.
