Globalisation - Technology and the break down of borders

This blog looks at the idea of globalisation through the digital age.  Modern society is no longer confined to local or national behaviours.  Through the growth of the digital age, boundaries have been broken down globally.  This globalisation can be seen on different fronts.  These include globalisation as; interdependence, capitalism and westernisation etc.  Interdependence is how the world economy is now interlinked, in that if a downturn occurs in one part of the globe, others become more affected elsewhere.  Globalisation as capitalism is more controversial.  The ideology behind this is that globalism is merely a legitimisation of capitalism on a global scale.  Martin Khor suggested that "globalisation is what we in the third world have for several centuries called colonisation."  The most common perception of globalisation however, is in terms of westernisation.

Globalisation has led to the spread of Western culture and practices.  It has also allowed western icons to gain worldwide popularity, from sports stars such as David Beckham, through to pop stars such as Eminem.  They themselves have become a commodity and brand.  The most recognisable and widespread icon of the west is undoubtedly that of McDonalds.  Its very presence in places such as Indonesia etc. Highlights the spread of Westernisation.

A 'modern way' of doing things is spreading worldwide, but this modernisation I believe to be merely Americanisation in disguise.  Benjamin Barber states that "Globalism is leading to a homogenised 'McWorld' in which American popular culture and consumerism is overtaking the globe" 

A great deal of this globalisation mentioned is to due with the growth of digital technologies worldwide.  Undoubtedly the advent of the internet has had the greatest impact.  Information, data, entertainment, consumerism etc. can all be housed within the internet globally.  A blog written by someone in China for example could be viewed by myself at the click of a button.  Technologies such as the one i use now to create this discussion are like a global message board.  E-mails mean that documents and messages can be delivered to anywhere in the world within seconds.  Satellite technology has also helped this growth of globalism.  The satellite has meant that many televison and news stations could be setup and viewed globally.  By increasing the medias spread and capabilities, again the world becomes smaller as a result.  Everything we see and do can now be shared, regardless of divisions of sea and land, but at what price?

Through globalisation, mainly thanks to new technologies etc, we have also created a world in which the rich get richer and the poor poorer.  Sweatshop factories etc, are used by large Multi National countries as a way of increasing profits, but at the detriment to somebody elses labour and resources.  Although going global has many positives, there has to be a balance.  If we have created a world in which boundaries no longer exist, then surely we have created a world in which we are all one community?  If so, are actions should change accordingly. Treat others how you wish to be treated yourself!