Introduction
The political thought of Samir Amin is one of the analytical frameworks widely used to examine the relationship between global capitalism, underdevelopment, and political change in peripheral countries. As an economist and development theorist, he sought to demonstrate how global economic structures influence the political trajectories of countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. For this reason, engagement with his ideas continues to be significant within debates on economic justice, international politics, and critiques of globalization.
Given the transformations of recent decades and the expansion of the neoliberal order, revisiting his ideas appears to be an urgent scholarly need; many of the questions Amin raised about global capitalism continue to reappear today in new forms. Accordingly, the present article aims to systematically examine his theoretical and political foundations. It begins by reviewing his intellectual trajectory, then discusses his analysis of the relationship between core powers and peripheral countries. It goes on to explain concepts such as “the global capitalist system,” “underdevelopment,” and “delinking,” providing the necessary groundwork for understanding his perspective.
Alongside these topics, the role of peripheral states, social movements, and his view of political Islam are also addressed. This section is of particular importance because Amin sought to explain how certain political currents in the Islamic world emerge in interaction with economic and class structures. Finally, by highlighting the strengths of his ideas and the critiques leveled against them, the article aims to present a balanced overall picture of his intellectual legacy.
Overall, the article moves from theoretical discussions to political applications and then to a concluding synthesis, offering a framework through which the place of the political thought of Samir Amin in analyzing contemporary global and regional issues can be better understood. The next section will examine his intellectual background and the formation of his perspectives.
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The Intellectual Life and Academic Path of Samir Amin
Samir Amin’s intellectual life was shaped from the outset by exposure to multiple political and intellectual traditions. Growing up in a multicultural family heightened his sensitivity to economic and political differences among societies. His studies in Cairo formed the first stage of his engagement with issues of colonialism, inequality, and newly independent states. Entering French universities marked a new phase in his intellectual path, where he encountered Marxist economists, structuralists, and development theorists, experiences that helped refine his emerging analysis of global capitalism.
During this period, his contact with leftist intellectual circles and his research in political economy played a key role in shaping his critical outlook. Living in Europe while remaining attentive to the problems of peripheral countries led him toward a methodological synthesis that combined class analysis, critique of the global economy, and the study of political structures. This dual experience—living between the global North and South—ultimately became the foundation of his theory of the core–periphery division.
His research activities and collaborations with African, Arab, and Asian thinkers also contributed significantly to the formation of the political thought of Samir Amin. In international research centers, especially in Africa, he examined development models and the consequences of economic policies shaped by major powers. These activities ensured that his analysis of global capitalism was not merely academic but rooted in field observation and lived experience within peripheral societies.
In sum, his academic path combined theoretical training, participation in development-oriented research, and close interaction with political and intellectual movements across the global South. This multilayered background later enabled him to formulate with greater precision such concepts as “underdevelopment,” “delinking,” and “the global capitalist system.” The next section examines the theoretical foundations of his political thought, offering a more coherent picture of his analytical framework.
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The Theoretical Foundations of the Political Thought of Samir Amin
The political thought of Samir Amin is built upon a set of key concepts that he employs to describe the mechanisms of global capitalism and its consequences for peripheral societies. Together, these concepts create a framework for analyzing the relationship between economic power, social structures, and political processes. The main elements of this framework are outlined below.
2-1. The Concept of the “Global Capitalist System”
One of the central pillars of the political thought of Samir Amin is the analysis of capitalism as a global system. In this view, the world economy generates a set of asymmetric relations in which “core” countries maintain their dominant position through industrial, financial, and commercial mechanisms. In contrast, “peripheral” countries are trapped in cycles that reproduce economic dependency and structural weakness. This unequal structure is not only economic but also political: it restricts national sovereignty, increases the influence of major powers, and shapes governance patterns under external pressures.
Amin insists that relations between core and periphery have changed form over time, yet their unequal nature has remained intact. Even when global policies appear to move toward economic liberalization and trade cooperation, power structures continue to operate in ways that preserve global hierarchies. Accordingly, his analysis extends beyond economics to encompass the political and social implications of this system.
2-2. The Theory of “Underdevelopment”
In the political thought of Samir Amin, underdevelopment is neither a natural condition nor the result of historical backwardness. Rather, it is the direct outcome of unequal relations between core and periphery. From his perspective, peripheral countries are not merely “less developed”; they have been actively underdeveloped. Thus, whenever these countries shape their economic policies within the dominant global system, the likelihood of increased dependency grows.
Neoliberal models—emphasizing trade liberalization, reduced state intervention, and deeper integration into global markets—are, in Amin’s view, responsible for intensifying this divide. He argues that such policies undermine the possibility of autonomous industrialization and entrench fragile economic structures. Therefore, his analysis of underdevelopment is simultaneously economic and political, helping to explain why many peripheral countries remain unable to achieve sustainable development.
2-3. The Concept of “Delinking”
To respond to the unequal mechanisms of the global system, Samir Amin introduces the concept of delinking. This does not mean severing all ties with the global economy. Instead, it refers to reorganizing economic and political priorities so that domestic needs and capacities take precedence over the logic of the global market. In this framework, a peripheral country seeks to define its development path according to its own national and social objectives, rather than the imperatives of global competition.
This idea is sometimes mistaken for self-sufficiency or isolationism, but Amin stresses that the aim of delinking is to create an independent and balanced form of global integration. Nevertheless, implementing this strategy requires strong states, long-term planning, and broad social participation. These complexities have led some critics to question the feasibility of delinking, yet it remains one of the central concepts in his thought.
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Samir Amin’s Thoughts on Globalization
The analysis of globalization is one of the important components of the political thought of Samir Amin, because he regards globalization not as a neutral or natural process but as a new stage in the expansion of global capitalism. This perspective leads his examination of globalization to extend into areas such as power, the state, identity, and economic structure. The main elements of his view on globalization are outlined below.
3.1. Critique of Neoliberal Globalization
From Samir Amin’s perspective, neoliberal globalization is built upon the increased mobility of capital, the reduced role of the state, and the expansion of financial markets. He emphasizes that this model intensifies global inequality rather than creating equal opportunities. In this framework, core countries, using their technological and financial advantages, impose their economic models on peripheral countries, thereby deepening their dependency.
According to Amin, globalized neoliberalism not only obstructs development in the periphery but also influences political decision-making. He notes that parts of national economic policies are shaped under pressure from international financial institutions, a process that restricts political autonomy. Therefore, his critique of neoliberal globalization lies at the intersection of economics and politics.
3.2. Alternative Globalization or “Globalization from Below”
Alongside his critique, Samir Amin also proposes an alternative model that he calls “globalization from below.” In this approach, interaction among countries should be based on equal cooperation, knowledge transfer, support for domestic production, and strengthening internal capacities. This model of globalization prioritizes social and developmental needs instead of centering the logic of the global market.
In his view, this path is only possible through the active participation of states, social organizations, and solidarity movements. Strengthening relations among countries of the global South and reducing dependence on the core powers are also key components of this perspective. Thus, alternative globalization is regarded as a means of rebuilding economic and political structures.
3.3. The Role of the State and National Sovereignty in the New Global Order
One of the central points in the political thought of Samir Amin regarding globalization is the role of the state. Contrary to views portraying the state as an obstacle to development or the free flow of capital, he argues that national governments play a crucial role in shaping developmental trajectories. This role includes economic planning, protection of domestic industries, and establishing stable social institutions.
Given the unequal structure of the global system, Amin warns that without strengthening national sovereignty, peripheral countries cannot reduce external pressures or pursue a more independent path. He does not advocate isolation, however; instead, he emphasizes a calculated form of engagement in which the state can defend the long-term interests of society.
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Samir Amin’s View of the Arab World, Africa, and Asia
Samir Amin’s perspective on different regions of the world follows logically from his analysis of the global capitalist system. He seeks to show how economic and political structures in the Arab world, Africa, and Asia have been shaped under the influence of core–periphery relations. Therefore, examining his view of these regions contributes to a broader understanding of his political thought.
4.1. Analysis of Colonialism and Neo-colonialism
Amin believes that colonialism cannot be defined solely in terms of territorial occupation; in the modern era, it continues in the form of “neo-colonialism.” In this new form, economic relations and financial structures play the central role in exerting influence. He notes that many newly independent countries in Asia and Africa remained embedded in networks of economic and political dependency even after the formal end of colonial rule. This situation has limited their productive capacity and autonomous decision-making.
In his view, the effects of old colonialism and new neo-colonialism are visible in the class structures of these societies as well. The emergence of classes connected to the global market, the influence of transnational corporations, and the weakness of domestic institutions are among the consequences of this condition. For this reason, his analysis of colonialism links economics and politics simultaneously.
4.2. Comprador Capitalism and Peripheral States
To describe the condition of peripheral countries, Samir Amin uses the concept of “comprador capitalism.” This form of capitalism is accompanied by structures that reinforce dependence on the global economy. In his view, many peripheral states are governed by groups closely connected to international financial and commercial networks. These ties lead national development priorities to be shaped by external requirements.
He emphasizes that this pattern results not only in economic dependency but also in political constraints, including the reduction of state capacity to design independent programs, the weakening of protective policies, and the growing role of external institutions in domestic decision-making. Hence, in his thought, the study of peripheral states is directly linked to global structures.
4.3. The Role of Social, Labor, and Intellectual Movements
Alongside state structures, Samir Amin also highlights the importance of social movements. He believes that confronting unequal relations cannot be achieved solely through governments; it requires broad participation from social groups. In Asian and African societies, labor movements, student organizations, and civil groups have played significant roles in articulating economic and political demands.
He notes that these movements have often sought to redirect development paths from global priorities toward domestic needs. However, limited resources, external pressures, and closed political structures have at times restricted their influence. Overall, Amin argues that without the formation of broad social coalitions, transformation in peripheral structures will be difficult.
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Political Islam in Samir Amin’s View
The place of political Islam in Samir Amin’s thought is part of his broader analysis of the economic and social structures of the periphery. He examines this phenomenon not merely as a religious or cultural trend but as a component of the political and class transformations of Muslim-majority countries. His analysis rests on several key themes.
5.1. The Social and Class Roots of Political Islam
From Samir Amin’s perspective, Islamism (political Islam) is not simply the result of cultural or religious factors; it is also a social response to economic and social changes. He argues that in many Islamic countries, dependent economic policies have limited developmental opportunities and widened social inequalities. Under such conditions, political Islamic movements have gained symbolic or protest roles for segments of society.
According to him, these movements often draw support from urban middle classes, small traders, and social groups that experience instability or marginalization amid rapid economic changes. This social base gives political Islam mobilizing power, but it can also generate political limitations.
5.2. The Connection Between Political Islam and Dependent Capitalist Structures
Samir Amin emphasizes that political Islam—despite its anti-Western or anti-colonial rhetoric—has in many cases adapted to dependent economic structures. He explains that some of these movements, in practice, come into alignment with global financial networks, regional trade patterns, and comprador capitalist models. Thus, their role in altering economic structures often remains limited.
Amin argues that many political Islamic movements cannot offer an alternative economic model. As a result, even when they express discursive critiques of global powers, their economic practices generally conform to existing systems. This reduces their capacity for structural reform.
5.3. The Relationship Between Political Islam, Democracy, and Modernity
In Samir Amin’s analysis, the relationship between political Islam and democracy is multilayered. He notes that some Islamic political movements play important roles in social mobilization, yet in terms of political planning they sometimes face ambiguity or limitations in relation to democratic participation. In his view, the political orientation of certain movements emphasizes identity more than democratic structures, creating various challenges.
Regarding modernity, Amin adopts an intermediary position. He neither regards modernity as purely imported nor views political Islam as an absolute obstacle. For him, the central question is the extent to which political movements can pursue development projects, social justice, and sustainable institution-building. Thus, clarifying the relationship among identity, politics, and economic structure is essential in his analysis.
5.4. The Role of Political Islam in Reproducing Global Structures
Samir Amin believes that in some cases, political Islam—especially in its conservative or authoritarian forms—unintentionally contributes to reproducing unequal global structures. This occurs when political Islamic movements focus more on cultural issues than on structural transformation. In such situations, the potential for achieving lasting change in economic and political relations is diminished.
He stresses that the study of political Islam must be linked to economic structures; only then can one understand the extent to which these movements contribute to change or to the preservation of the existing order.
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Strategies of Liberation and Resistance from Samir Amin’s Perspective
The political and economic strategies in Samir Amin’s thought are shaped based on a critique of the global system and an effort to create independent pathways for peripheral countries. He presents these strategies not as predetermined prescriptions but as a set of orientations that can provide the conditions for escaping dependency. The most important components of this approach are examined below.
6.1. The Centrality of Popular Democracy
Samir Amin emphasizes a form of democracy grounded in broad social participation. From his perspective, democracy can serve as a tool of liberation only when it is accompanied by economic policies and when social groups can play a role in determining development priorities. He notes that without the formation of accountable institutions, independent economic programs will also face difficulties. Therefore, democracy in his view is part of the development project, not merely a political structure.
6.2. South–South Solidarity
One of the main strategies in the political thought of Samir Amin is strengthening cooperation among peripheral countries. He believes that economic and political relations among countries of the Global South can increase productive capacities and reduce dependence on global markets. In this framework, cooperation in areas such as technology, education, energy, and food security can provide a foundation for more balanced development.
In his view, such cooperation is effective when states and regional institutions play an active role in formulating joint programs and when interactions are not limited merely to trade. For this reason, South–South solidarity is regarded as a long-term strategy for reconstructing the position of peripheral countries.
6.3. National Reconstruction and Sustainable Development
Samir Amin emphasizes the importance of national planning. He believes that countries seeking to break out of the cycle of dependency must strengthen their internal capacities, including upgrading productive capabilities, investing in basic industries, and expanding public infrastructure. This planning must take place within the framework of social goals and sustainable development so that the ability to resist external pressures is increased.
In his view, national reconstruction means creating a balance between short-term needs and long-term goals. This process requires states capable of managing resources, regulating markets, and supporting vulnerable groups. In this sense, national reconstruction is also connected with concepts such as social justice, education, and institution building.
6.4. The Future of the Struggle Against Imperialism
One of the concluding themes in Samir Amin’s thought concerns the outlook for confronting new forms of global domination. He emphasizes that power relations in the contemporary era have become more economic and financial in nature, which increases the complexity of analyzing them. Nevertheless, he believes that a combination of regional solidarity, social participation, and long-term planning can help reduce the effects of unequal global structures.
From his perspective, change in global relations occurs gradually and through the creation of independent political and economic institutions. This process requires linkages between domestic policies and international cooperation. For this reason, the future of the struggle against imperialism involves a set of coordinated actions at multiple levels.
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Critiques and Strengths of Samir Amin’s Thought
The political thought of Samir Amin, because of the broad range of issues it addresses—from critiques of the global system to analyses of underdevelopment and the proposal of strategies for liberation—has generated diverse reactions among scholars, economists, and political activists. Evaluating his theories requires attention to both sides: strengths as well as the critiques directed at his analytical framework.
7.1. Critiques from the Neoliberal Current
Neoliberal critics argue that Samir Amin’s view places excessive emphasis on the conflict between center and periphery while giving insufficient weight to internal factors. From their perspective, many countries that have followed a path of sustainable development have achieved success through gradual integration into the global economy. For this reason, Amin’s insistence on delinking or state-led planning presents challenges for this group.
In addition, some critics ask whether focusing on global structures leads to overlooking the potential for internal reform. This question is especially prominent among economists who stress the role of domestic institutions and national policy-making.
7.2. Critiques from the Radical Left
On the other hand, some theorists of the radical left have also raised criticisms. This group argues that the idea of delinking is difficult to implement in practice and may face structural limitations. They claim that without changes in global structures, domestic efforts may encounter serious obstacles in the short term.
Some also argue that Amin’s emphasis on the nation-state may lead to the strengthening of bureaucratic structures or concentration of power unless accompanied by democratic reforms and broad social participation. This critique underscores the need for balance between the role of the state and popular participation.
7.3. Methodological and Analytical Strengths
Despite these criticisms, the political thought of Samir Amin possesses notable strengths. One of the most important is the linkage between economic and political analysis. He demonstrated that politics and economics in the contemporary world are inseparable and cannot be analyzed independently.
Another strength is his historical and structural perspective. In order to understand global relations, he focuses on long-term processes, which gives his analysis greater depth. His attention to peripheral societies and their lived experiences also provides a more realistic picture of development challenges.
7.4. Potential Shortcomings and Contradictions
Alongside its strengths, some shortcomings can also be observed in his thought. For example, the idea of delinking sometimes requires political and economic capacities that not all countries can easily access. Moreover, the role of global trade, technology, and new economic transformations is at times given less attention than necessary.
Some scholars argue that the classic center–periphery framework may not fully capture today’s global dynamics, since some countries occupy central positions in certain domains and peripheral positions in others. However, these critiques do not invalidate his framework; rather, they highlight the need for its revision and updating.
Conclusion
The political thought of Samir Amin provides an analytical framework for understanding the unequal relations between global powers and peripheral countries. He demonstrated that underdevelopment, economic dependency, and the formation of political currents—such as political Islam—can all be understood within the context of the global capitalist system. His analysis is simultaneously economic, political, and social, helping us to better grasp the complexities of globalization and the pressures generated by neoliberalism.
One of his most important contributions is the concept of “delinking” and his emphasis on independent development strategies. This idea shows that countries can reduce dependency through national planning, strengthening the state, social participation, and South–South cooperation. Although there are critiques and limitations in implementing these concepts, his framework remains inspiring for researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners.
Moreover, his examination of political Islam and social movements in peripheral countries highlights the importance of economic and class contexts. Samir Amin showed that without structural and historical analysis, our understanding of political or religious phenomena remains incomplete. Thus, his thought is not merely an economic-political theory but also a guide for analyzing real conditions in peripheral countries and their efforts to achieve sustainable development and social justice.
In conclusion, Samir Amin’s intellectual legacy remains relevant in the era of globalization and neoliberal pressures. Revisiting his theories helps countries, researchers, and policymakers to realistically and structurally understand the opportunities and constraints of development and economic independence, and to propose strategies for confronting global inequality.
