Lecture 17: Globalization Globalization is multi-dimensional Universalization vs. particularization: many aspects of social experience are universal (production models, fast food, consumerism) but there continue to be important differences between people and cultures Homogenization vs. differentiation: expansion of products, processes and institutions and also need to be assimilate these into local conditions Integration vs. fragmentation: new forms of global, regional and transnational form s of community but also increasing salience of local identities an politics in response leading to divisions and fragmentation. (Rosenau- fragmegration)- Integration on a regional global scale but fragmentation on a local level. Changes in character of global exchange McGrew and Held · Extensity: extending social, political and economic activities across political borders · Intensity: cross-border contacts are deepened, closer connection of the global and the local · Frequency: higher and continuously increasing number of cross-border activities · Velocity: Accelerating speed of this exchange (in person or via media) Ethics and Global movements: Global Jihad Global movements not political in the traditional sense: do not seek to form political parties, seize power, establish a territorial state, or negotiate a compromise Cannot act through a 'politics of intentionality' i.e. they cannot guarantee the effects of their actions Jihadist movements share several features with other global movements (Devji, 2005). 9/11 Commission: Al Qaeda was "more globalized than we (the US) were". · Heterogeneous · Lack of organizational or ideological commonality · Lack common history- different interpretation of ideology and goal · Often little communication/coordination
Some reactions from the sceptics Globalisation is a myth. (Hirst & Thompson) · current internationalised economy is not unique in history genuinely TNCs relatively rare . no shift of finance and capital from the developed to underdeveloped worlds · the world-economy is not global (blocs - Europe, north America, and Japan blocs can regulate global economic markets and forces Globalisation is very uneven in its effects. Globalisation are technologies that automatically benefit the richest economies in the world. Globalisation may well be simply the latest stage of Western imperialism Paradox at the heart of globalisation thesis (Western values vs. Asian etc. values) Global governance - to whom are the transnational social movements and/or corporations responsible and democratically accountable?