The Contemporary World Midterm Reviewer

In today’s popular culture, poverty and segregation are always tackled because these are some of the points of conversation that show ___ between social classes.

disparity (i.e., a marked difference)

is defined as a group of people within a society who possess the same socioeconomic status. It has been studied extensively in social science, as it was covered by several philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes, Karl Marx, and Max Weber, to name a few

social class

As referenced in some songs such as Upuan (by GLOC-9) and Tatsulok (by Bamboo), our world can be organized into a pyramid with clear distinctions, generally called the ___

North-South Divide

It is the economic, social, and political gap between the developed, industrialized countries of the Northern Hemisphere (often referred to as the Global North) and the less developed countries of the Southern Hemisphere (referred to as the Global South).

North-South Divide

The perception that one’s identity is inferior compared to foreign culture and ethnicity.

Colonial mentality

The behaviors or attitudes that reflect and foster the belief that race is a fundamental determinant of human traits, where differences make one (1) superior.

Racism

The unjust (or prejudicial) treatment of different categories of people, particularly with their ethnicity, age, sex, or disability.

Discrimination

Colonizers imposed trade patterns that benefited their economies, leading to enduring economic disparities between former colonizers (Global North) and former colonies (Global South). These can be traced as far back as the Age of Exploration, where Portugal and Spain practically divided the world into the East (Spain-centric) and West (Portugal-centric). This was intensified during the Industrial Revolution, when slavery and exploitation of natural resources became rampant, sparking the rise of imperialism.

Unequal Trade Relationships

• Can create new economic opportunities via:

o Expanded markets

o Foreign investments, and

o Technological advancements

• Generates jobs

• Increases incomes

Positive impacts

• Can exacerbate poverty by widening income inequalities

• May face challenges in competing with more advanced economies

• May lead to job losses in traditional sectors

• Increases vulnerability for marginalized populations

Negative impacts

Latin America is known for its significant income disparities, where a small elite holds a disproportionate share of wealth compared to the majority of the population. This disparity is exacerbated by global economic trends that often favor developed regions over developing ones.

Income Inequality

Latin American countries often face challenges in accessing global markets on equal terms due to trade barriers, tariffs, and unequal trade agreements. This limits their ability to compete globally and benefit fully from international trade.

The Global Market

Many Latin American economies are heavily reliant on exports of primary commodities (such as oil, minerals, and agricultural products). Fluctuations in global commodity prices can lead to economic instability and vulnerability.

Commodities

The global divide perpetuates poverty and social exclusion in Latin America, where a significant portion of the population lacks access to basic services such as education, healthcare, and sanitation. Economic disparities drive migration from Latin America to more developed regions seeking better economic opportunities and living conditions. This has social and economic implications for both sending and receiving countries. Finally, access to quality healthcare and education varies widely across the region, with rural and marginalized urban populations often facing significant barriers to accessing these essential services.

Social and Human Development

Latin American countries may have less influence in global decision-making forums compared to more economically powerful regions. This can impact their ability to advocate for their interests on issues such as trade agreements, environmental policies, and international aid. Economic disparities can contribute to political instability and governance challenges in Latin America, including corruption, social unrest, and political polarization.

Political Influence and Governance

There is a digital divide in Latin America, with disparities in internet access and connectivity between urban and rural areas, as well as across socioeconomic groups. This affects access to information, education, and economic opportunities. Limited investment in research and development compared to more developed regions hinders technological innovation and competitiveness in Latin America, impacting economic growth and development.

Technological Access and Digital Divide

Latin America is home to rich biodiversity and natural resources. However, global environmental policies and climate change disproportionately affect the region, leading to challenges such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and vulnerability to natural disasters. The demand for Latin America’s natural resources by more developed regions can lead to environmental degradation and social conflicts over land use and resource extraction.

Environmental and Climate Challenges

The integration of Philippine industries into global markets has stimulated economic growth, particularly in sectors such as business process outsourcing (BPO), manufacturing, and tourism. This has contributed to overall GDP growth and increased foreign direct investment.

Economic Growth

Despite economic growth, income inequality remains a significant challenge. Globalization has concentrated wealth in urban centers and among certain sectors, leaving rural areas and marginalized communities behind. This disparity in wealth distribution underscores persistent poverty and social inequities within the country.

Income Inequality

The United Nations has identified poverty eradication and reducing inequalities as central goals in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, encapsulated in the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 1: No Poverty

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

The UN aims to eradicate extreme poverty globally, ensuring that all people have access to basic resources, services, and economic opportunities.

SDG 1: No Poverty

Addressing inequalities within and among countries is crucial to promoting inclusive and sustainable development. The UN advocates for policies that empower marginalized groups, promote social protection systems, and ensure equal access to resources and opportunities. The UN encourages member states like the Philippines to adopt inclusive policies that prioritize poverty reduction and equitable economic growth. This includes investing in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainable livelihoods to uplift disadvantaged communities and bridge the gap between rich and poor.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

it refers to the process of Asian countries coming together to foster cooperation, integration, and collective decision-making within the region. This regional cooperation aims to enhance economic growth, political stability, and cultural exchange among Asian nations.

Asian regionalism

Promote sustainable economic growth and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.

FOUNDING MEMBERS: • Australia • Brunei • Canada • Indonesia • Japan • South Korea • Malaysia • New Zealand • Philippines • Singapore • Thailand • United States

Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC:1989) 

Economic integration, political cooperation, social progress, and cultural development. 

MEMBERS: • Brunei • Cambodia • Indonesia • Laos • Malaysia • Myanmar • Philippines • Singapore • Thailand • Vietnam

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN:1967)

To ensure dynamic and mutual cooperation, especially in the areas that are of common interest to the member countries. To create an environment for ensuring expeditious economic growth in the South Asian and Southeast Asian countries.

MEMBERS: • Bangladesh • Bhutan • India • Myanmar • Nepal • Sri Lanka • Thailand

Bay of Bengal Initiative for MultiSectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC:1997)

Regional cooperation in economic, social, cultural, technical, and scientific fields. Attempts to address common challenges in the region and foster regional stability

MEMBERS: • Afghanistan • Bangladesh • Bhutan • India • Maldives • Nepal • Pakistan • Sri Lanka

South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC:1985)

Enhancing cross-border connectivity between the member nations, promoting trade and economic growth.

MEMBERS: • Bangladesh • Bhutan • India • Maldives • Myanmar • Nepal • Sri Lanka

South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC:2001)

Globalization profoundly influences Asian regionalism in several ways, shaping its economic, political, and socio-cultural dimensions. Here are the key impacts of globalization on Asian regionalism.

Impact of Globalization on Asian Regionalism

Globalization facilitates increased trade flows and investment within Asia and between Asian countries and the rest of the world. Regional economic integration efforts such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and bilateral trade agreements are accelerated by globalization, promoting cross-border economic activities.

Trade and Investment

Globalization has led to the development of complex supply chains across Asia, with countries specializing in different stages of production. This integration enhances economic efficiency and competitiveness within the region.

Supply Chains

Globalization encourages Asian countries to form and strengthen regional organizations such as ASEAN, SAARC, and BIMSTEC. These organizations promote political dialogue, conflict resolution, and cooperation on regional issues such as security, climate change, and disaster management

Regional Organizations

Increased connectivity and cultural exchanges due to globalization enhance countries' soft power. Asian countries use cultural diplomacy, tourism, and educational exchanges to strengthen regional ties and influence international relations.

Soft Power and Diplomacy

Globalization facilitates cultural exchanges among Asian countries, promoting mutual understanding, tolerance, and appreciation of diversity. This cultural interaction fosters regional identity and cohesion.

Cultural Exchange

Globalization contributes to the spread of technology, knowledge, and best practices in areas such as healthcare, education, and urban planning. This enhances social development and resilience within the region.

Social Development

Globalization promotes digital connectivity across Asia, bridging urban-rural divides and improving access to information and communication technologies (ICTs). This connectivity supports economic growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Digital Connectivity

Globalization encourages collaboration and innovation in technology-intensive industries across Asian countries. Joint research initiatives, technology transfers, and investments in innovation hubs contribute to regional technological advancement.

Technological Innovation

The region faces challenges such as pollution, resource depletion, and climate change, which require regional cooperation and sustainable development strategies.

Globalization Challenges

Thus, globalization shapes Asian regionalism by promoting economic integration, enhancing political cooperation, facilitating cultural exchange, advancing technological innovation, and presenting both challenges and opportunities for sustainable development

Globalization Opportunities

The spread of ideas and advocacy from Western countries influences discussions and perceptions about SOGI in Asia.

Global Influence

Platforms like ASEAN and SAARC facilitate exchanges on SOGI issues among member states

Regional Responses

Pressure from global entities promotes adherence to international human rights norms regarding SOGI rights

Global Standards

Adoption of varied legal protections across Asian countries influenced by cultural and political contexts.

Regional Variations

Globalization exposes Asia to diverse perspectives, challenging traditional norms and promoting acceptance of SOGI diversity.

Cultural Exchange

SOGI expression is influenced by local cultural and religious beliefs, nuanced by regional responses to global norms.

Local Contexts

Resistance to perceived foreign influences may restrict advocacy efforts for SOGI rights.

Conservative Backlash

Continued stigma and discrimination based on SOGI in legal frameworks and societal attitudes, shaped by regional responses to global influences.

Legal and Social Stigma

Globalization enhances access to healthcare and support networks for individuals with diverse SOGI.

Healthcare and Social Services

Increased internet access facilitates SOGI advocacy and support networks, bridging gaps in regions with limited local resources.

Digital Connectivity

Increased global trade and investment may lead to the exploitation of natural resources in IP lands for commercial gain, affecting traditional livelihoods and land rights.

Globalization

Integration into regional economic frameworks may create opportunities for IPs to participate in markets and value chains but also poses risks of marginalization and loss of land rights.

Regional Economic Initiatives

Exposure to global cultures can enrich cultural diversity but also threaten traditional knowledge and practices.

Cultural Exchange

Regional and global recognition of indigenous cultures may promote cultural pride and heritage conservation efforts.

Preservation Efforts

Global human rights norms may influence Philippine policies on indigenous land rights and self-determination.

International Standards

Participation in regional indigenous rights networks may enhance advocacy for land rights and legal protections

Regional Cooperation

Globalization may improve access to education for IPs, but cultural biases and language barriers can hinder effective learning.

Access to Education

Participation in regional initiatives could enhance access to healthcare, infrastructure, and other services, improving quality of life.

Access to Social Services

Demand for natural resources in global markets can lead to environmental degradation and loss of traditional lands for IPs.

Global Markets

Collaboration on environmental protection initiatives can benefit indigenous territories and promote sustainable resource management.

Conservation Efforts