Definition

Noun: 1. A form of indirect control or influence: The practice where a powerful nation maintains or extends its influence over less developed countries or former colonies, not through direct political governance but primarily through economic, cultural, or political pressure. 2. Economic and cultural dominance: A system of dominance that uses capitalism, globalization, and cultural imperialism to perpetuate an unequal power relationship between developed and developing nations.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The economic policies were criticized as a form of neocolonialism, binding the nation in debt.
  • Scholars argue that neocolonialism persists through the control of global financial institutions.
  • The country's reliance on foreign aid and investment led to accusations of neocolonialism.

Advanced Usage

• "Cultural neocolonialism": Refers to the dominance of one culture over another through media, language, and consumer products, often eroding local traditions.
  • The spread of global fast-food chains is sometimes seen as a type of cultural neocolonialism.
• "Economic neocolonialism": Specifically emphasizes control through debt, trade agreements, and corporate practices.
  • The unfair trade terms were a clear instrument of economic neocolonialism.

Variants and Related Words

• Neocolonial (adj): Relating to or characteristic of neocolonialism.
  • The nation resisted neocolonial influences on its economy.
• Neocolonialist (noun/adjective): A supporter of neocolonial policies, or relating to such policies.
  • The regime was accused of being neocolonialist in its dealings with smaller neighbors.

Synonyms

• Imperialism: A policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization or other means. (Note: Neocolonialism is often considered a modern, indirect form of imperialism.)
• Hegemony: Leadership or dominance, especially by one state or social group over others.
• Economic domination: Control exercised through financial means.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Dependency theory: An academic framework that argues resources flow from a "periphery" of poor states to a "core" of wealthy states, enriching the latter at the expense of the former, which is closely associated with critiques of neocolonialism.
• Neo-imperialism: A term often used interchangeably with neocolonialism to describe modern imperial practices.

Noun

1. control by a powerful country of its former colonies (or other less developed countries) by economic pressures