Global Issues Exam 1 Flashcards
Chapter 1: Globalization - A Contested Concept
Q: How does Steger define globalization, and why is it considered a contested concept?
A: Steger defines globalization as the expansion and intensification of social relations across world-space. It is considered contested because different scholars and groups view it differently—some see it as a force for economic prosperity and interconnectedness, while others criticize it for increasing inequality and cultural homogenization.
Q: What are the four qualities of globalization, and how do they manifest in modern society?
A:
Creation of new social networks – Examples include global digital communities, social media, and multinational organizations.
Expansion and stretching of social relations – Companies outsource production globally, and international trade agreements connect economies.
Intensification and acceleration of exchanges – Faster transportation and digital communication allow instant global interactions.
Involvement of multiple dimensions – Globalization impacts economics (trade), politics (UN, WTO), culture (global media), and ecology (climate change).
Q: What are the main arguments in favor of and against globalization?
A:
In Favor: Increases economic growth, promotes innovation, fosters cultural exchange, and enhances global cooperation.
Against: Leads to income inequality, threatens local cultures, benefits corporations over workers, and contributes to environmental degradation.
Chapter 2: Is Globalization a New Phenomenon?
Q: What are the key historical periods of globalization, and how do they differ?
A:
Prehistoric (10,000 BCE - 3,500 BCE): Early human migration and agriculture spread.
Premodern (3,500 BCE - 1500 CE): Civilizations grew, and long-distance trade routes (Silk Road) emerged.
Early Modern (1500-1750): European exploration, colonial expansion, and mercantilism spread goods and ideas globally.
Modern (1750-1980s): Industrialization, capitalism, and imperialism accelerated economic and political globalization.
Contemporary (1980s-Present): Digital revolution, economic globalization, and multinational corporations drive rapid global integration.
Q: In what ways has globalization evolved from the premodern era to the contemporary period?
A: Globalization has evolved from limited regional trade and migration to worldwide economic, cultural, and political interconnectedness. The speed, scale, and intensity of globalization have drastically increased due to industrialization, technology, and digital communication.
Q: What factors contributed to the acceleration of globalization in the late 20th century?
A: The rise of digital technology, the spread of neoliberal economic policies, the growth of multinational corporations, the fall of trade barriers, and advancements in transportation and communication.
Chapter 3: The Economic Dimension of Globalization
Q: What role do transnational corporations (TNCs) play in economic globalization?
A: TNCs drive globalization by operating across multiple countries, establishing global supply chains, and influencing trade and labor markets. They facilitate investment and technological innovation but can also exploit workers and local economies.
Q: How have neoliberal policies shaped the global economy?
A: Neoliberal policies promote free markets, deregulation, privatization, and reduced government intervention. Since the 1980s, leaders like Reagan and Thatcher have championed these policies, leading to economic growth but also increasing inequality.
Q: What are some criticisms of economic globalization, particularly regarding inequality and environmental impact?
A:
Inequality: Widening income gaps between and within nations, as wealth accumulates among corporations and elites.
Environmental Impact: Industrialization, deforestation, and pollution increase due to global supply chains.
Cultural Erosion: Local businesses and traditions may be replaced by global brands and consumer culture.
Chapter 4: The Political Dimension of Globalization
Q: How has globalization affected the power and sovereignty of nation-states?
A: Global institutions (UN, WTO, EU) and multinational corporations have reduced the control individual governments have over their economies, laws, and policies. Trade agreements and international regulations influence national decision-making.
Q: What is global governance, and what are some examples of international organizations involved in it?
A: Global governance refers to international cooperation to manage global issues such as trade, climate change, and security. Examples include the United Nations (UN), World Trade Organization (WTO), International Monetary Fund (IMF), and European Union (EU).
Q: Why has there been a rise in nationalism and populism in response to globalization?
A: Many people feel that globalization threatens local jobs, cultures, and national identity. Economic hardship, immigration concerns, and corporate influence have fueled nationalist and populist movements that seek to reassert national sovereignty and restrict globalization.