Globalization is a phenomenon characteristic of the present-day world, which has been made possible due to the development of communication technologies, especially the Internet, and multifaceted relationships among countries. This process is generally understood as “the transformation of economic and cultural structures into a single and universal world” (Marifovich, 2019, p. 8160). Although the so-called ‘global village’ seems to be an attractive idea, globalization is a versatile phenomenon, having both positive and negative effects.
Adverse influences of globalization are seen in such areas as economics, culture, and politics. This phenomenon has allowed for free labor force movement, which results in increased unemployment among locals, human capital flight, and poverty (Burlacu et al., 2018). In politics, globalization may lead to security deficit, personal insecurity, and the condition when events happening in one part of the world significantly influence countries situated far away (Burlacu et al., 2018). Given such serious adverse effects of globalization, counties may want to restrain it. Historical examples show that it is quite possible, at least on a national scale. For instance, the Russian Revolution of 1917 stopped globalization within the country that later became the Soviet Union (Dadush, 2017). Although restraining globalization may benefit a country by increasing employment rates among locals and preserving the national culture, it deprives it of such advantages as free international trade and rapid technological progress.
Even though globalization is a large-scale phenomenon, its influence is seen at an individual level. For example, I experience the effects of globalization when I go to a Chinese or Italian restaurant while being in a different country. I can also get in touch with people from India, Brazil, or any other country without leaving my house. When I travel to someplace, I often see people of various nationalities coming from different parts of the globe. Finally, I hear on the current news that countries help each other cope with the pandemic, which also can be attributed to globalization. Instead of dealing with the problem on their own, countries join their efforts.
As for the impact of globalization on cultures, I believe that it destroys them rather than enhances them. Globalization leads to the formation of a unique, uniform culture that is shared among all people (Marifovich, 2019). I think that existing cultures contribute to this new culture, which, when established, will lead to blurred cultural differences and enhanced understanding among people from various parts of the world.
References
Burlacu, S., Gutu, C., & Matei, F. O. (2018). Globalization – Pros and cons. Quality – Access to Success, 19(S1), 122-125.
Dadush, U. (2017). The future of globalization. Policy Brief -17/18. OCP Policy Centre. Web.
Marifovich, T. M. (2019). Impact of globalization on human and social culture. International Journal of Scientific Research and Education, 7(4), 8160-8162.