Impact of colonialism and underdevelopment of Africa : can globalization be considered a form of neo-colonialism and why it impacts differently in some sectors?

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

In this paper we evaluate the impact of colonialism on development in Sub-Saharan Africa. In the world context, colonialism had very heterogeneous effects, operating through many mechanisms, sometimes encouraging development sometimes retarding it. In the African case, however, this heterogeneity is muted, assessing the average effect more interesting. We emphasize that to draw conclusions it is necessary not just to know what happened to development during the colonial period, but also to take a view on what might have happened without colonialism and also to take into account the legacy of colonialism. The legacy of colonialism has cast a long shadow over the continent, with neocolonial practices posing significant obstacles to sustained socio-economic growth and self-determination. This study aims to extensively understand neocolonialism’s multifaceted impacts on Africa’s economic growth and development by employing a qualitative approach and analyzing secondary data sources. The analysis highlights the intricate dynamics of neocolonial control in Africa, including economic dominance, political interference, cultural subjugation, and power imbalances. Moreover, it sheds light on the role of foreign aid and trade, multinational corporations, and international financial institutions in perpetuating neocolonial practices. These means and mechanisms enable the former colonial powers to exert indirect influence over Africa’s economic and political landscape, impeding genuine progress. Findings reveals that Africa’s nominal and flag independence following decolonization has not translated into genuine autonomy and self-sufficiency. Instead, the continues to face economic dependence, corruption, and stunted development due to neocolonial exploitation. The exploitation of Africa’s vast natural and human resources, unequal trade relationships, and support for authoritarian regimes have all contributed to the continent’s ongoing struggles.

목차 (Table of Contents)

• Abstract i
• Table of Contents iii
• List of Abbreviations vi
• CHAPTER 1: Introduction 1
• 1.1 Background 1
• 1.2 Research Gap, Objectives and Aims 2
• 1.3 Structure of Research 4
• 1.4 Research Objectives 4
• 1.5 Research Questions 4
• 1.6 Significance of the Study 5
• 1.7 Scope of the Study 5
• 1.8 Structure of the Dissertation 6
• CHAPTER 2: Theoretical Framework And Literature Review 7
• 2.1 Introduction 7
• 2.2 Dependency Theory and the Persistence of Unequal Development 8
• 2.3 Modernization Theory and Development Through Integration. 9
• 2.4 Local Adaptation and Alternative Development Pathways. 11
• 2.5 Globalization and Sectoral Development in West Africa 11
• 2.6 Neo-Colonialism in Contemporary Globalization 13
• 2.7 Why Globalization Produces Uneven Outcomes 15
• 2.8 Literature Gaps and Critical Evaluation 16
• 2.9 Contribution of the Present Study 19
• CHAPTER 3: Research Methodology 21
• 3.1 Introduction 21
• 3.2 Research Philosophy 21
• 3.3 Research Design 22
• 3.4 Study Area 22
• 3.5 Sampling Strategy and Participant Selection 23
• 3.6 Data Collection Methods 24
• 3.7 Data Analysis 25
• 3.8 Ethical Considerations 26
• 3.9 Limitations of the Study 27
• CHAPTER 4: Analysis And Findings 28
• 4.1 Emerging Themes from Participant Responses 28
• 4.2 Discussion of Findings 31
• CHAPTER 5: Conclusion And Recommendations 33
• 5.1 Introduction 33
• 5.2 Summary of Key Findings 33
• 5.3 Conclusions 34
• 5.4 Policy Recommendations 35
• 5.5 Contribution to Knowledge 38
• 5.6 Recommendations for Future Research 38
• 5.7 Final Remarks 39
• References 40
• 국문초록 42
• Acknowledgements 44