Globalisation is a modern term used to describe various levels of social, economical, political, technological, cultural and ecological change, which have increased the levels of interdependence, integration and connectivity of the world. This assignment will focus on the elaboration of multiple aspects of globalisation, in order to produce an academic discussion. It is important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of globalisation to acquire a more definitive view on how this progressive state of global transformation affects societies across the world.
The phenomenon of globalisation is one which has posed many areas of debate over recent decades. Whilst some believe that the effects of globalisation are positive, others believe that they are harmful. Ideologically, a process where the entire world is unified and able to operate as a single society seems utterly positive. Whilst many individuals claim that globalisation assists in international integration of culture and productivity, as well as economically improving developing countries, there are some disadvantages which cannot be overlooked.
From an anti-globalisation perspective, some of the most fundamental economical disadvantages are linked to the changes which occurred after the industrial revolution. Specifically in an economical context, globalisation is refered almost exclusively to the changing effects of global trade; particularly trade liberalisation. According to the IMF, globalisation is defined as “the growing economic interdependence of countries worldwide through increasing volume and variety of cross-border transactions in goods and services, freer international capital flows, and more rapid and widespread diffusion of technology” (IMF, World Economic Outlook 1997).
Although many individuals believe that globalisation has
References: Ritzer, G & Zeynep, A (2010). Readings in Globalization : Key Concepts and Major Debates. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell. Sparks, C (2007). Globalization, Development and the Mass Media . London: SAGE. IMF. (1997). World Economic Outlook. Available: http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/weo1097/weocon97.HTM. Last accessed 20th January 2012.