Neo-Colonialism and The Canadian Political Economy

Publisher:  William Luttrell, c/o Gatt-Fly, 11 Madison Ave. Toronto, Ont. M5R 2S2, Canada
Year Published:  1977
Pages:  24pp   Resource Type:  Article
Cx Number:  CX485

This study paper provides information for those seeking to reflect on the dynamics of the Canadian economy in an international context.

Abstract: 
This study paper provides information for those seeking to reflect on the dynamics of the Canadian economy in an international context. It begins with a definition of neo-colonialism: "The essence of neo-colonialism is that the state which is subject to it is, in theory, independent and has all the outward trappings of international sovereignty. In reality its economic system and thus its political policy, are directed from outside (by foreign capital) … The result of neo-colonialism is that foreign capital is used for the exploitation rather than for the development of the less developed parts of the world." By comparing Canada with other countries (both 'developed' and 'underdeveloped') this paper examines Canada both as a neo-colony and as a developed country with its own multinational corporations. The study, however, presents considerate evidence to substantiate its claim that Canada's economy is basically neo-colonial; chief among the factors contributing to Canada's neo-colonial status is the huge amount of foreign domination of major industry.

As a neo-colony the country is structurally weak and is more dependent in its trade and military prowess than either Japan or Germany. The paper concludes by recommending a socialist transformation as the only remedy to combat Canadian corporate imperialism and neo-colonial subjugation. Much of the research and documentation in this paper is illustrated through the use of tables and graphs.