World-Systems Theory

A macro‑historical analytical model that explains long‑term global social and economic structure by locating geopolitical and territorial units in durable positional categories—core, semi‑periphery, and periphery—connected through patterned flows of production, capital, labour and surplus characterized by unequal exchange and division of labour.

A macro‑historical framework that interprets local social, economic, and political developments in terms of their position within long‑distance, hierarchical networks of production, exchange, and power commonly conceptualized as core, semi‑periphery and periphery; in archaeology it explains material patterns by reference to unequal interregional linkages and flows rather than solely local processe