Self-reliance

Definition

Self-reliance refers to the ability of an individual or a nation to depend on their own resources and capabilities to achieve goals and fulfill needs. This concept emphasizes independence, autonomy, and the rejection of external aid or influence, particularly in the context of economic development and political decision-making.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Self-reliance is a fundamental principle in dependency theory, which critiques the dependence of developing nations on developed countries for economic support.
2. Nations that adopt self-reliance often implement policies aimed at reducing foreign investment and promoting local industries to foster economic independence.
3. The push for self-reliance can lead to the promotion of domestic production over imports, thereby potentially improving a nation's trade balance.
4. Critics argue that an extreme focus on self-reliance can hinder international cooperation and limit the benefits of global trade and partnerships.
5. Self-reliance is often associated with national pride and sovereignty, as countries seek to assert their independence on the global stage.

Review Questions

• How does self-reliance connect with the principles of dependency theory in understanding global economic relationships?
  • Self-reliance is a core tenet of dependency theory, which argues that developing countries should aim to reduce their reliance on developed nations for economic aid and resources. This perspective emphasizes that dependency perpetuates inequality and hinders growth. By focusing on self-reliance, developing nations can seek to build their own economies through local resources, ultimately working toward greater autonomy and reduced vulnerability to external market fluctuations.
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of adopting a self-reliant approach for developing nations in a globalized economy.
  • Adopting a self-reliant approach offers several advantages, such as fostering local industries, enhancing economic stability, and building national pride. However, it can also lead to disadvantages, including isolation from beneficial international trade and reduced access to foreign technology or expertise. Striking a balance between self-reliance and global engagement is crucial for sustainable development in an interconnected world.
• Assess the long-term implications of self-reliance policies on global power dynamics among developed and developing nations.
  • Long-term implementation of self-reliance policies can significantly alter global power dynamics by empowering developing nations to challenge traditional hierarchies that favor developed countries. As these nations build robust economies independently, they may gain more negotiating power in international forums and reshape trade agreements. This shift could lead to a more multipolar world where power is distributed more evenly, impacting how global issues are addressed and managed moving forward.

Related terms

Autarky: A policy or state of economic independence where a country aims to be self-sufficient and avoids relying on imports.

Sovereignty: The authority of a state to govern itself without external interference, reflecting its independence and self-determination.

Developmentalism: An approach to economic development that prioritizes local resources and capabilities while seeking to enhance national growth through self-reliance.