Positioning in the world system and semiperiphery

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to examine the existence of country groups, especially the semiperipheral ones, in the world economy income distribution drawing on a systemic perspective derived from the works of the World-Systems Analysis. The concepts of Scientific-Technical Revolution and new International Division of Labour are likewise relevant to the analysis. Thus, a new methodology was developed based on Arrighi & Drangel’s (1986) operational suggestion aiming at assessing the centresemiperiphery-periphery stratification predicted in the theory. By means of data exploratory techniques like cluster analysis, stable groups which are representatives of a polarized structure as well as the triadic one were found in the period 1950- 003. The consideration of data regarding industrial activities and world trade can favour a more precise definition of the positioning of the countries. Lastly, Brazil’s semiperipheral character, marked by heterogeneity in domestic production and in the insertion in world commodity chains, is observed.