But what exactly is globalisation?
The dictionary definition of globalisation is 'wold wide integration and development'(Online Dictionary 2012). However, globalisation can extend beyond general, open ended trends (Pieterse 2004, p. 17).
Pieterse states that globalisation refers to 'an objective, empirical process of increasing economic and political connectivity, a subjective process unfolding in consciousness as the collective awareness of growing global interconnectedness, and a host of specific globalising projects that seek to shape global conditions' (2004, p. 17). In this respect globalisation is a diverse concept that is capable of multiple meanings definition. Furthermore, there are differing and often conflicting perspectives about the meaning of globalisation.
Globalisation can also be understood in terms of its 'flows'.
1. Physical Flows
This refers to the movement of people across national borders whether voluntary or involuntary, legal or illegal.
2. Cultural Flows
This refers to the cultural objects, beliefs, values, skills and practices that we carry with us when we travel. However it also refers to cultural traits that are carried across national borders through the internet or other forms of media and communication. For example, foreign films, food and music.
3. Information Flows
Information flows refer to the exchange of information across national borders through new and old media technologies.
4. Media Flows
Media flos refers to the global media empires and audiences and the increasingly mobile and transnational nature of media today.
5. Flows of Capital
This refers to the flow of capital whether it be through tourism, consumerism or otherwise. In this respect, the capital flow is dependent on other flow such as information and media.
It is important to understand that the flows of globalisation are interconnected, interrelated and linked together. However globalisation does not flow equally throughout the globe. There are still divides and cracks in its global flow.
Over the coming weeks I will be interrogating the concept of globalisation further....stay tuned.
References:
Nederveen Pieterse, J 2004, ‘Globalization: consensus and controversies’, Globalization and culture: global mélange, Rowan & Littlefield, Lanham, Md.
The Online Dictionary, viewed 22 July 2012, <http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/globalisation?s=t>
The World Health Organisation, Trade, Foreign Policy, Diplomacy and Health, viewed 22 July 2012, <http://www.who.int/trade/glossary/story094/en/index.html>
First off your blog is very well written and I like the fact that you have described not just one but many different definitions of globalisation because it is in fact one big topic that is comprises of many different aspects. I think separating it and describing it as these 'flows' is probably the better definition, as it seems to cover the majority of what globalisation actually is and breaks it down into its separate components. Nice job :) - Luke Prats
ReplyDeleteWow, first I would like to say how well you have done on your blog and its layout! The background is very creative. Now back to the blog its self, you have done very well in spacing out your information on globalisation and explaining what globalisation is. It is a great introduction for people who do not know anything about globalisation and its flows. I also like how you have used the YouTube video to briefly explain globalisation.
ReplyDeleteNice Post, easy to read and full of information that is processable, which leaves the reader (i found) feeling overwhelmed but in a good way ... how all of the flows and everything else is all interrelated and intertwined and big mess. Thats i see and what i kind of read from your blog.
ReplyDeletefunny clip, love the song, one of the better bond films haha ... The world really isnt enough, is it!