The World Economic System in Asia Before European Hegemony
Author(s)
Frank, Andre Gunder
Abstract
This essay examines historical perspectives on modern world history, particularly the contradictions between what Braudel and Wallerstein say and what they show. Contrary to their interpretations, Wallerstein and Braudel’s evidence demonstrates that modern history unfolded in a world economic system, the center of which emerged in Asia and only shifted to Europe after 1800. This essay also addresses the controversy over the European origin of capitalism and casts doubt on the validity of calling the early modern world economy “capitalist.” Ideology still blinds too many historians to the nature of the global economy beyond Europe.
