The post-2008 crisis has long historical origins that are discussed here with reference to theories of world systems and globalization – two bodies of literature that have only intermittently engaged with each other. The discussion addresses the transition from colonialism to post-colonialism as movements in the global system that is currently undergoing further restructuring, one feature of which is growing inequality both within and between developed and developing counties. Although not yet well articulated, this could require some rethinking of the global relations of ‘core’ and ‘periphery’.
Keywords: world systems, globalization, Wallerstein, post-colonialism, capitalist crises, ecological threat, violence.
