Currently, there are 195 countries in the world, each with its unique set of knowledge collected throughout the millennia. Nevertheless, the imperial conquest from 1492 to 1800 led to the discovery of new continents and nations and their cultures and traditions accumulated by the colonizers (Friedman). The wave of globalization between 1800 and 2000, led by business corporations, made the exchange of knowledge and experience even simpler (Friedman). Today, the world is in the midst of the third globalization wave, with modern technology allowing individuals to work for foreign ventures from the comfort of their homes. Thus, the current globalization era is advanced by individuals with great ambition rather than countries or companies. However, it can be argued that the world is, in fact, in a state of de-globalization. Economic research forecasts the emergence of economic alliances and blocs around major countries, with China in particular pathing the way (Witt 1053). In addition, the automation of the workforce suggests the decreasing needs in the workforce from other countries (Hayes). However, technological development continues to facilitate globalization, with individuals from third-world countries coming to the forefront of the modern workforce. There are three main reasons that support this position. First, multinational companies choose to build their operations in nations with a lower cost of labor, leading to the accumulation of new knowledge and skills in those countries. Second, technology allows individuals to study and work remotely while living in areas with low living costs. Finally, the influence of technology was far more impactful on the third-world countries, with individuals from them comprehending the impact the involvement in sciences and engineering can have on their lives and the development of their states.
Works Cited
Friedman, Thomas L. “It’s a Flat World, After All.” The New York Times, Web.
Hayes, Brian. “Automation on the Job.” American Scientist, Web.
Witt, Michael A. “De-globalization: Theories, Predictions, and Opportunities for International Business Research.” Journal of International Business Studies, vol. 50, 2019, pp. 1053-1077.