ABSTRACT
The investigation into the dynamics of catching up and falling behind in neoliberal capitalism reveals a process of unequal development. Over the last decades, countries located in Southeast and South Asia, as well as Central and Eastern Europe that became member of the European Union, have made progress in catching up. In most cases, a large gap persists in comparison with the developed capitalist countries. However, most developing nations in other Asian regions, Latin America, and Africa fell behind. This chapter concludes the book by discussing the conditions necessary for successful catching up, emphasizing that (re)industrialization is a path for national development. The crisis of neoliberalism opens the opportunity for a new international order, redefining the role of developing countries. It also recognizes backwardness as an international problem in the current technological conditions. A coordinated international investment plan in green energy production in developing countries may open possibilities for poverty reduction, development, and collaboration between nations. Addressing the pressing challenges facing humanity requires a departure from neoliberalism. A fundamental question is whether worldwide sustainable and equitable development can be achieved within a capitalist economy.
