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Globalization derives from the word globalize, which refers to the emergence of an
international network of economic systems. The term globalization had been used in its
economic sense at least as early as 1981, and in other senses, probably as early as
1944.
HISTORY
From ancient trade routes to the formation of international organizations, the exchange
of ideas and trade has, in one way or another, existed as long as us.
There is some debate about what stage in history we should call the beginning of
globalization. Some believe that globalization has been around since human migratory
routes were formed (as early as the 1st century BC). Certainly, humans have been
trading goods forever, but when it comes to moving goods across borders, the creation
of the Silk Road is widely acknowledged to be one of the earliest large-scale examples
of globalization.
The Silk Road was a trade route between China and Europe which saw Chinese goods
being sold in Europe for the first time. From spices to silk, early global trade routes
thrived over land and sea into the 14th century, but it was at the end of the 15th century
when global trade truly took off in the Age of Discovery.
During this time, European explorers linked the East and West and discovered the
Americas, and now common-place foods like potatoes, tomatoes, coffee, and chocolate
became available in Europe.
DEFINITION OF GLOBALIZATION
Globalization is the process whereby the world’s people are becoming increasingly
interconnected in all facets of their lives—cultural, economic, political, technological,
and environmental”
Economic globalization
The ongoing development of processes, seizing of opportunities, and solving of the
challenges of economic activity around the world. Examples include the spread of
capitalism, an increase in market trading and exports, and the forming of global
economic policies.
Cultural globalization
The sharing and trading of cultural beliefs, traditions, and ideas. Examples of this
include the rise of K-Pop (Korean pop music).
Digital globalization
The sharing of data and information on digital platforms speeds up and improves how
we connect to people around the world. Examples include big tech platforms like
Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Financial globalization
The rise in global financial systems and the exchange of money globally. Examples
include the global stock market, which relies on the economy as a whole and where a
decline in one market has a knock-on effect on others.
Geographic globalization
The ever-changing organization of different regions and countries around the world.
Examples include the sharing of visas between certain countries which enable people to
work, live, and travel easily in countries other than their own.
Political globalization
The development and influence of international organizations which decide on actions
and laws at an international level. Examples of such organizations include the European
Union, the UN, and even the World Health Organization.
Ecological globalization
Refers to the growing movement towards seeing the Earth (and its upkeep) as a single
entity for which we must all be responsible. Examples include the COP26 summit which
saw countries from around the world come together to tackle climate change as one
global team.