Interdependence

In the modern world one of the most important groups of which we are members is the nation-state. Our opportunities and life chances are bound up with the nation to which we belong. So also is our sense of who we are: American, Mexican, Chinese, and so on. Because the circumstances of the individual vary in systematic ways with those of the nation, the problems of inequality and difference discussed in Part III for individuals also apply for nations. Important cultural differences distinguish citizens of different nations. These differences form a basis for inequality. We speak of international inequality when we speak of the way our national identity might systematically affect our life chances so that opportunities differ for citizens of different nations. Table 11.1 presents data on some of the important differences between nations that can affect life chances.

International inequality develops in a context of interdependence. Although we differ from citizens of other nations – in culture, in institutions, in affluence, in values – we also depend on citizens of those nations. And our dependence is increasing. The complex mix of difference, inequality, and interdependence presents important and difficult problems. In this chapter and the next, I review some of these problems. I begin with an exploration of international interdependence.

Two senses of economic interdependence between nations have special significance. The first focuses on the division of labor or degree of mutual dependence in production, the second on location of markets.