AAMC FL Practice Exam

Which of the following best exemplifies a periphery nation in World Systems Theory?

1. A highly industrialized country

2. A developing country with weak institutions

3. A nation with strong governmental control

4. A nation known for high levels of education

The correct answer is: A developing country with weak institutions

In the context of World Systems Theory, a periphery nation is characterized by its developing status, often with weak institutions, economic vulnerability, and a reliance on the export of raw materials rather than manufactured goods. This framework, developed by sociologist Immanuel Wallerstein, divides the world into core, semi-periphery, and periphery nations, highlighting the inequalities and dependencies that shape the global economy. The choice that identifies a developing country with weak institutions accurately embodies the characteristics of a periphery nation. Such countries typically struggle with economic instability, lack of infrastructure, and limited access to education and healthcare, which further entrenches their position in the global economy where they are often exploited for their resources by more developed core countries. The other options represent aspects that are not aligned with the definition of a periphery nation. Highly industrialized countries typically fall into the core category due to their advanced economies and strong institutions. A nation with strong governmental control could either be a core or semi-periphery state, depending on its level of economic development and integration into the global market. Nations known for high levels of education usually indicate a stronger, more developed status that corresponds with core nations. Thus, the developing country with weak institutions is the most fitting representation of a per