Study Notes: Globalisation

1. What is Globalisation?

Definition:
Globalisation refers to the increasing interconnectedness of countries through trade, technology, communication, and cultural exchange.

Key Aspects:

  • Economic globalisation – trade, investment, multinational corporations (MNCs).

  • Political globalisation – international organisations, global governance.

  • Cultural globalisation – media, migration, shared cultural influences.

  • Technological globalisation – internet, social media, innovation.

2. Factors Driving Globalisation

Technological Advancements

  • Internet and digital communication – Instant global connectivity.

  • Faster transport – Air travel, high-speed rail, container shipping.

  • Automation and AI – Increased productivity and efficiency.

Trade Liberalisation

  • Free trade agreements – WTO, EU, NAFTA.

  • Reduction of tariffs and barriers – Encourages economic integration.

Growth of Multinational Corporations (MNCs)

  • Apple, McDonald's, Amazon – Influence on jobs, culture, and economies.

  • Supply chains across multiple countries.

Migration and Labour Mobility

  • Movement of people for work and education.

  • Cultural diversity – Blending of traditions.

Media and Cultural Exchange

  • Social media, films, and music spreading globally.

  • Impact of Westernisation and hybrid cultures.

3. Diffusion & The Global Village

Diffusion

  • Definition – The process of ideas, products, and technology spreading worldwide.

  • Types of diffusion:

    • Expansion Diffusion – Spread of ideas while remaining strong in the origin (e.g., fast food).

    • Relocation Diffusion – People moving and bringing culture (e.g., immigration).

Global Village

  • Concept – The world is interconnected like a small village due to communication technology.

  • Marshall McLuhan's idea – Everyone can access the same information instantly.

  • Examples: Global social media trends, viral news, instant video calls.

4. Local Citizens vs Globalised Citizens

Local Citizens

  • Engage mainly within their community.

  • Preserve traditional culture and practices.

  • Have limited global interactions.

Globalised Citizens

  • Interact with people from different cultures.

  • Use technology to stay connected internationally.

  • Work for or consume products from multinational companies.

5. Transport Technology & Friction of Distance

Transport Technology

  • Air travel – Makes international travel faster.

  • High-speed trains – Connect major cities efficiently.

  • Container shipping – Global trade made easier.

  • Ride-sharing & electric vehicles – Changing urban mobility.

Friction of Distance

  • Definition – The idea that distance is a barrier to interaction.

  • Globalisation reduces friction of distance through improved transport and technology.

  • Example: Online shopping removes the need for physical distance.

6. Time-Space Convergence

  • Definition – The perception that the world is "shrinking" due to faster communication and transport.

  • Example: A letter used to take weeks to arrive, now an email is instant.

  • Factors affecting time-space convergence:

    • High-speed internet.

    • High-speed rail networks.

    • Air travel advancements.

7. Positive & Negative Impacts of Globalisation

Positive Impacts

✅ Economic Growth – Increased trade and investment boost economies.
✅ Job Creation – More employment opportunities in developing nations.
✅ Access to Technology – Developing nations gain access to innovations.
✅ Cultural Exchange – Exposure to different traditions and perspectives.
✅ Improved Living Standards – Cheaper goods, better healthcare, and education.

Negative Impacts

❌ Economic Inequality – Rich nations benefit more than developing ones.
❌ Environmental Damage – Deforestation, pollution, climate change.
❌ Loss of Cultural Identity – Western culture dominates local traditions.
❌ Exploitation of Labour – Poor working conditions in sweatshops.
❌ Financial Instability – Global financial crises spread quickly.

8. Globalisation & Key Linkages

Trade & Economy

  • Global supply chains.

  • Free trade agreements (EU, ASEAN).

  • Role of World Trade Organization (WTO).

Technology

  • Digital economy (e-commerce, AI).

  • Influence of social media and big tech companies.

Culture & Society

  • Spread of languages (English, Mandarin).

  • Fast fashion, global brands.

  • Tourism and its effects.

Politics & Global Governance

  • United Nations (UN), International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank.

  • Global responses to crises (COVID-19, climate change).

9. Case Studies & Examples

  • China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) – Expanding trade networks.

  • Fast Fashion Industry – Global supply chains & environmental concerns.

  • McDonald’s Global Expansion – Cultural adaptation in different countries.

  • COVID-19 Pandemic – Impact on trade, travel, and healthcare.

10. Summary of Key Themes

📌 Globalisation affects economy, politics, culture, and technology.
📌 It has both positive and negative consequences.
📌 Countries and businesses must balance benefits with ethical concerns.
📌 Future of globalisation depends on sustainability and regulations.

[Diagrams Will Be Included Separately]

Would you like any section expanded further? 🚀

diagrams please