Synopsis
The article under consideration entitled “Introduction: Inclusion and Exclusion in the Global Arena” is a piece of writing by Max Kirsch taken from the book written by the same author. The article was published by Routledge in 2007. The author introduces information about the controversial nature of globalization in the modern world. Kirsch uses numerous sources to gather the most relevant evidence that reveals his opinion about the issue. According to the author, numerous studies have examined globalization, but little attention has been paid to the role of local communities in the process of globalization. Thus, the purpose of the article under review is to disclose and evaluate current frameworks and consequences of globalization.
Kirsch starts the article with the discussion of the globalization and its theorists. He explains various points of view concerning globalization. Kirsch dethrones the topicality of Wallerstein’s idea that “a world system had developed that separated areas and regions into “cores,” “peripheries,” and “semi-peripheries,” depending on their roles in the world economy” (3). Kirsch writes that the division of the world on the basis of such binary opposition is no longer relevant. The author emphasizes the fact that globalization is not a linear process, and its manifestation differs depending on the ethnic peculiarities of the geographical regions.
Then the author moves to more exact information about local communities, indigenous populations, and identities. At the current stage of development, indigenous groups are significant participants in the globalization processes. Kirsch finishes the article by pointing out to the distinctive disparities between local communities’ living and working conditions and ideas of globalization.
Evaluation
The article of Max Kirsch has both strengths and weaknesses. In my opinion, the primary strength of the article is the usage of credible sources. The author employs only relevant sources. Also, he provides numerous in-text citations to demonstrate what is the basis for making conclusions or statements. Max Kirsch used thirty-six sources written by different authors to support his considerations. The sources are both old and new, and in such a way Kirsch investigates the way views on globalization have changed over time.
The second distinctive strength of the article provided refers to the deep research of the issue and usage of numerous examples. I would like to give prominence to the way the author explores identity disparities and their relation to social planning and political power. Kirsch manages to deliver numerous well-thought cases that demonstrate the condition of the local populations from the global perspective such as the state of mines in some areas, discrimination in Latin America, and the unfair treatment of migrant workers.
The only weakness of the article is the flow of information. Sometimes, it is not clear what is the connection between paragraphs, and it takes time to understand the author’s idea. For instance, Kirsch ends one paragraph writing about Goody’s vision of world’s systems and resemblances in social behaviors. The next paragraph starts with the role of anthropology in studying globalization. It seems that there is no logical connection between two paragraphs.
Personal reaction
The piece of writing under consideration was interesting to me because it broadened my knowledge and vision of the world. Before reading the article, I did not think about the role of local societies in globalization. Max Kirsch opened new perspective for the globalization-related issues for me. I have realized that much information about globalization is promoted by well-developed societies and their structural powers while those who are not in advantageous position suffer from inequalities and structural violence.
Works Cited
Kirsch, Max. Introduction: Inclusion and Exclusion in the Global Arena. Inclusion and Exclusion in the Global Area. By Kirsch. London, United Kingdom: Routledge, 2007. 2-27. Print.