World-System Analysis Perspectives on China: A Literature Review

Abstract

This thesis provides a comprehensive literature review of the World-System Analysis (WSA) literature focusing on the representation of China. Beginning with the birth of the approach and its theorization by sociologist Immanuel Wallerstein, it also examines the perspectives on China's role within the world-system of other classical authors such as Andre Gunder-Frank and Giovanni Arrighi. In addition, it explores the evolution of the Chinese representation in the contemporary literature, offering insights into the evolution of China's position and influence in the global system.