Abstract
The very concept of imperialism is dynamic, fluid, and the complexity of the notion of imperialism allows for the possibility to give multiple definitions, various accounts for it. This essay will examine major aspects and theories accounting for imperialism and the remnants of the phenomenon in contemporary International Relations, and position on this respect will partially be in accord with Marxist discussions according to which imperialism today and economic dependence of former colonies is alleged to result from the material needs of capitalism. The political and strategic aspects of imperialism will also be covered, with an examination of the ideological and hierarchical contents within the notion, as well as the evolution of dominance through culture and ideas, or cultural imperialism, and its developments in the international arena. Some of the potential forms of imperialism may in practice be much more prevalent than others, the problematique thus being to determine which forces are most prevalent, and which ones are the most potent, leading to the persistence of imperialistic forms and the emergence of such concepts as neo-imperialism.
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