Globalization in the 21st Century Essay

Globalization has give-up the ghost one of the principal symbols of economic, cultural and political aliveness in the 21st century. Although there is no precise definition of orbiculateization, due to the complexity of the term and the varying attitudes towards it, put simply it is the process by which themeity is becoming all the time more irrelevant. Inter peopleal organizations such as Coca Cola, Disney, McDonalds, Sony, Shell Oil and IBM, symbolize such a process. In laymans terms, globalization is basically the means by which throng around the globe ar now more connected to apiece other than ever before. Information and money flow more swiftly and goods and services produced in one part of the globe are increasingly more obtainable human racewide. International travel is also more obsess and international communication is routine. However globalization as we know it instantly is vastly diametrical from its humble scratchs. The following essay w indisposed suppose at the effect global institutions have on a national level and whether they challenge or defend the interests of the nation.Richard Peets reading deals with the beginning of globalization, brought on by a struggle for dominance and control of the balls resources, through the use of coercion. Globalization was heralded by capital of Ohios discovery of America in 1492. European capitalists then necessitate labour to develop their new found continent. This came in the form of slavery, raw slavery had an economic rather than merely a racial ground it was utilise because it was cheaper.(Peet, R. pg.120) This lead to the demise of Africas potential for development as millions of slaves were taken from their homeland. This left a void of labour in Africa, thence inhibiting their ability to develop their own nation. This is still prevalent in instantlys society as sweatshops in under unquestionable countries with deplorable conditions are used as labour for many of the worlds global i nstitutions such as Nike and Polo Ralph Lauren (see attached table 9.3, Klein, N. pg.528)Wallerstein reading addresses the rise of socialism and communism as an antidote to the capitalist value of go along at any cost. He ponders whether or not historical capitalism represents progress or regression. (Wallerstein, I. pg.100) He believes historical capitalism has developed an ideological manakin of oppressive humiliationwhich today we call sexismand racism. (Wallerstein, I. pg.102) Globalization has led to a very small group having a monopoly over world trade. In Australia the richest 10 percent of its population own 85% of all shares, 72% of rental investment properties and 60% of business assets. (Kelly. S, 2001)However, contrasting views do be in relation to globalization, so its important to assess some(prenominal) the positive and negative impact.Globalization has allowed for the creation of a new world politics, in which countries are not isolated units anymore. Globally t he world has become united in dealing with issues such as pollution and environmental standards. Recent developments in information and communication technology allow individuals from different regions to communicate speedily across huge distances and access information rapidly. body politic is spreading rapidly which is leading to the development of a common culture. amid 1975 and 1995 the number of democracies in the world increased from 36 to 75 states, which coincided with the globalization boom, and has lead to much closer links between nations. For less developed countries, globalization offers access to foreign capital, global export markets, and advanced technology, allowing hot growth which in turn promotes poverty reduction, democratization, and higher labour and environmental standards. (www.freetrade.org/issues/globalization.html)In contrast opponents to globalization believe it increases inequality between nations. such(prenominal) inequality is caused due to the rap id expansion of trade and economic developments without deferred payment to human rights and labour standards. Globalization inhibits governments from subjecting worldwide economic forces to regulation and control. The rum distribution of wealth associated with rapid globalization may be outturn the gap between certain countries and regions. In order for a nation to prosper in todays economy, they must possess the shopping center foundation of competitiveness. Such competitiveness leads to the exploitation of poorer nations, further contributing to the petulant distribution of wealth. Global organizations increase their profit margins at the expense of the sweatshop prole whose human and civil rights are being violated. Illegal activities such asterrorism and drug trafficking have been allowed to flourish due to the free purport of goods and persons, the hallmark of globalization.In conclusion globalization bodes both good and ill for mankind however nevertheless appears to b e here to stay, whether we like or not. The challenge that lies ahead is not to try and reverse it, but to reign the positive potential whilst minimising the adverse effects. Unless this opportunity is seized, nations and global institutions will cover to struggle for domination and power. Those nations and institutions unable to compete and adapt in their new global economic climate will continue to be used by those that can. It is now up to mankind to decide wether or not the power will be cleverly used or not.BibliographyKelly, S. (2001) Australians wealth and retirement, http//pandora.nla.gov.au/pan/10635/20011112/www.onlineopinion.com.au/2001/Jul01/Kelly.htm, accessed 05/05/03Klein, N. (2000) No Logo, Table 9.3. Sweatshop Profiles, London FlamingoPeet, R. (1991) Global Capitalism Theories of societal development, London Routledge, pp. 114-124Wallerstein, I. (1983) Historical Capitalism, London Verso, pp. 97-110)http//www.freetrade.org/issues/globalization.html, The Benefits of Globalization, accessed 04/05/03