(P2) Human Geography - 'Global systems'

What is Globalisation

Globalisation can be defined as the increasing interconnectedness of the world’s economic, cultural and political systems

Describe the concept of interdependence for globalisation

Globalisation can be defined as the increasing interconnectedness of the world’s economic, cultural and political systems

Interdependence is the theory that nations depend on each other economically, politically, socially and environmentally. 

Economic interdependence is where countries rely on each other for economic growth, for instance the trading of oil.

Social interdependence is where countries rely on each other for leisure activities e.g. TV programmes produced in other countries

Political interdependence is where countries are dependent on each other to solve issues that cannot be addressed by just one country e.g. 2015-2016 migrant crisis

Environmental interdependence is where all countries rely on each other to protect the environment. For instance, the Chernobyl disaster in Ukraine reached the UK.

What issues are associated with Interdependence

Interdependence can cause issues for dependent countries due to unequal flows

Outline the issues associated with interdependence and people

Unequal flows of people

In general, migration occurs from low income countries to high income countries . This is due to there being more opportunity in high income countries (better employment, more freedom etc.). Therefore, the flow of people globally is unequal.  

Benefits - workers send remittances back to their home country, helping the economy grow

Limitations - As many migrants are more desperate for work than nationals, they may be vulnerable to exploitation, such as poor working conditions and low wages

Outline the issues associated with interdependence and capital.

Unequal flows of money/capital

Money primarily flows into low-income countries through Foreign Direct Investment, aid, and remittances, whereas the flow of money into high-income countries are majorly from profits/product sales.

Benefits - To the country receiving money, foreign direct investments can improve quality of life as it provides an income

Limitations - As many migrants are more desperate for work than nationals, they may be vulnerable to exploitation, such as poor working conditions and low wages

What issues are associated with Interdependence and ideas

Unequal flows of ideas

High income countries usually dictate ideas of how countries should be run, and how trade should be carried out. This is mostly down to these countries having more money, thus more power over less developed countries

Benefits - Since the 1980’s, neo-liberal ideas have increased free trade, which has led to more development within countries and less conflict between some countries.

Limitations  Neo-liberalism started in developed countries and has spread globally. Therefore, it tends to concentrate wealth in the hands of a few leading to rising levels of inequality

What issues are associated with Interdependence and technology

Unequal flows of technology  

 A lot of consumer technology is manufactured in lower income countries, only to be distributed to HICs.  

Benefits - Companies benefit from products being produced overseas, meaning they can maximise profits. The economies of LICs can develop through technology investments, opening up factories and increasing employment.

Limitations -  Developed countries can afford the latest technology, whereas less developed countries can't.

Explain unequal Power Relations caused by Interdependence 

• In general, wealthier developed countries hold more power globally due to their financial strength, advanced technology, and extensive international relations.

•  In contrast, low-income countries lack influence, relying on richer nations' decisions without the ability to intervene or impose sanctions, particularly in global environmental law and trade.