The term globalization first appeared in 1962 as jargon. Perhaps this is one of the most controversial terms in recent history. The Economist has called it “the most abused word of the 21st century”. Globalization means different things to different people. Anthony Giddens rightly says “As an unpredictable and turbulent process, globalization is seen and understood very differently by observers.” Globalization gurus are puzzled about the direction and consequences of globalization. Some appreciate it and believe that it would lead to universal peace and harmony- nirvana. Others condemn it, as they believe that it would lead to all kind of chaos and Unordnung. Unfortunately it is also true. Globalization has also contributed to recent terrorism.
In this work I make an impartial attempt to present an objective understanding of the term “Globalization”. Globalization is causing many structural changes and I admit that some of them are very cruel. Can globalization be stopped ? If, not then what strategy should be adopted to protect the masses. This work aims to find answers to several such questions.
I begin with conceptualization of the term globalization. Then I briefly describes implications of globalization in various fields. Later part mainly deals with economic, political and communication dimensions of globalization. Attempts are made to trace the origin of globalization. Several debatable and contradictory arguments are put also forward.
Assuming globalization as dependent variable, I proceed to elaborate on various factors, which causes globalization. Internet, bandwidth and flow of information without any hindrance have contributed to contemporary globalization. Such free flow of information has also occasionally led to divisions among humanity.Al Jazeera’s live broadcast of conflicts has created hindrance between Arabs and Israelis.
Globalization is creating significant impact on welfare system in developed countries. Therefore, taking globalization as an independent variable I deal with it’s consequences in the forthcoming part. The discussion about globalization would be incomplete without mentioning contribution of America and also how globalization has led to terrorism.
Globalization is reality and it comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Measures should be initiated to control negative impacts of globalization and positive aspects should be encouraged. Concluding chapter deal with certain surviving strategies.
Table of Contents
1 Conceptualization of Globalization
1.1 Globe, Global and Globalization
1.2 Pioneers of Globalization
2 Various Dimensions of Globalization
3 Origins of Globalization
3.1 Chronological and Geographical Contexts
3.2 Historical and Contemporary Globalization
3.3 Globalization 1.0, Globalization 2.0 and Globalization 3.0
3.4 Milestones of Contemporary Globalization
4 Assessing the Causes: What causes Globalization?
4.1 America as Engine of Globalization
4.2 Information at Striking Speed
4.3 Free Flow of Information
4.4 Wide Reach of Information
4.5 Miscellaneous Causes
5 Assessing the Consequences: What are the Consequences of Globalization?
5.1 Distribution of Wealth
5.2 Welfare System in Developed Countries
5.3 Autonomy of Nation
5.4 Convergence of World Economy
5.5 Globalization and Eradication of Poverty
5.6 Globalization and Resentments
5.7 Globalization helping both – The Creator and The Destroyer
5.8 Globalization and Creation of Multiple Identity Disorder
5.9 Globalization and Disillusionment
6 Concluding Remarks
6.1 Running with Gazelles, Eating with Lions. Formation of a Global Risk Society.
6.2 “Wake up and face the Flat earth”- Thomas Friedman
Research Objectives and Key Topics
This work aims to provide an impartial and objective understanding of globalization by analyzing its origins, driving factors, and multifaceted consequences on society, economy, and politics. It explores whether the process can be halted and discusses strategies for protecting populations within a rapidly integrating world.
- Conceptualization and historical evolution of globalization.
- Economic, political, and communication dimensions of global interconnectedness.
- Analysis of the "Global Risk Society" and the impact on welfare systems.
- The role of technology and information flow as primary drivers.
- Strategies for navigating global competition and ensuring future stability.
Excerpt from the Book
3.3 Globalization 1.0, Globalization 2.0 and Globalization 3.0
In his work “The World is Flat” globalization pundit Thomas Friedman narrates three different ages of globalization, namely Globalization 1.0, Globalization 2.0 and Globalization 3.0.
Globalization 1.0 began with discovery of America by Columbus in 1492. This discovery opened the gates between New World and Old World. During this period countries were globalizing. It reduced the world from large size to medium size. Globalization 1.0 was about countries and muscles. This era lasted till 1800. Dynamic force behind this era of globalization was breakthrough in transport system, innovation of steamship and improvement of transport facilities. The key players during this period were countries globalizing for resources. - Countries were globalizing
Globalization 2.0 started in 1800 and lasted till 2000. This period was slightly interrupted by great depression and World War I and II. Globalization 2.0 reduced the world from a size medium to a size small. Key players during this period were multinational companies. These companies went far off places in search of labour and markets. English and Dutch joint stock companies were key operators. Industrial Revolution also contributed to the whole happening. In the beginning the globalization process was fuelled by decreasing transportation coat. Thereafter decreasing telecommunication costs gave further momentum. Inventions of the steam engines and the rail transport, the telegraph and telephone, the PC, satellites and worldwide web made this possible. Global movement of goods and services from continent to continent were salient feature of this era. Dynamic force behind this era of globalization was breakthrough in hardware, such as improvement of communication facilities. Companies were in constant search of arbitrage opportunities. They wanted to go global and look for all possible collaborations. -Companies were globalizing.
Summary of Chapters
1 Conceptualization of Globalization: This chapter defines the terminology and historical emergence of globalization, highlighting it as an ongoing process of intensifying worldwide social relations.
2 Various Dimensions of Globalization: This section explores the economic, political, and communication spheres of globalization, emphasizing its link to modernization and industrialization.
3 Origins of Globalization: This chapter categorizes the roots of globalization into chronological and geographical contexts and explains the distinct phases from 1.0 to 3.0.
4 Assessing the Causes: What causes Globalization?: This part identifies the driving forces of globalization, such as American influence and the rapid, borderless flow of information.
5 Assessing the Consequences: What are the Consequences of Globalization?: This chapter analyzes the socio-economic impacts, including wealth distribution, welfare changes, and the emergence of new psychological and societal challenges.
6 Concluding Remarks: The final section reflects on the inevitability of globalization and provides strategic perspectives on how governments and individuals can navigate the resulting risks and opportunities.
Keywords
Globalization, Economic Integration, Technological Advancement, Global Risk Society, Information Flow, Multinational Corporations, Welfare System, Americanization, Multiple Identity Disorder, Global Governance, Wealth Distribution, Social Relations, Modernization, Sustainable Strategy, Comparative Advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this work?
The work provides an impartial analysis of the term "globalization," tracing its historical origins and evaluating its causes and consequences on a global scale.
What are the main thematic areas covered?
The text focuses on the economic, political, and communication dimensions of globalization, alongside its social impacts and the role of technological innovation.
What is the central research question?
The author questions whether globalization can be stopped and, if not, what strategies should be adopted to protect the global population from its negative impacts.
Which scientific methodology is used?
The paper utilizes a comprehensive literature review and theoretical analysis to synthesize various arguments regarding the globalization process.
What does the main body address?
It details the historical phases of globalization (1.0 to 3.0), investigates the factors driving it, and examines the outcomes, such as the widening gap between the rich and the poor and the creation of a "Global Risk Society."
Which keywords best describe the research?
Key terms include Globalization, Economic Integration, Technological Advancement, Global Risk Society, and Global Governance.
What is meant by the "Multiple Identity Disorder" in the context of globalization?
It describes a state where an individual acts under the influence of several conflicting identities simultaneously, such as being a consumer, a citizen, and a shareholder, each having different interests regarding corporate practices.
How does the author characterize the role of America in globalization?
The author identifies America as an "engine of globalization," noting its role as an innovator and a dominant force in spreading brands, culture, and service models worldwide.
What is the significance of the "Running with Gazelles" analogy?
It illustrates the competitive nature of the modern, flat world, where every entity must constantly adapt and perform to survive, regardless of its previous status or size.
- Quote paper
- Jitendra Jain (Author), 2007, Tracing the Origin and exploring the Causes and Consequences of Globalization , Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/163906
