You are on page 1of 10

In the contemporary international landscape, defining globalization proves challenging, yet scholars have

endeavored to offer a fundamental comprehension of the concept. Globalization has become intricately
intertwined with transformative processes that impact various facets of global social,cultural, political, and
economic development. It can be viewed as a phenomenon binding the world's population into a unified
society. Socially, globalization indicates increased interaction among people, cultural homogenization, and
the emergence of a "global village". Politically, it encompasses intricate networks of global governance and
shared political values, fostering a trend toward a more uniform global political culture. Economically, it is
evident in liberalization, privatization, and deregulation, culminating in a free-market
system.Technologically, it fosters instant communication, information exchange, and global
interdependence, revolutionizing industries and societies. The pervasive influence of technology has
transformed how people interact, work, and access information on a global scale.

On a broader scale,Globalization involves the increased connections and movements of people, goods,
capital, ideas, and cultures between nations. Some see it as a shift towards global institutions, driven by a
more integrated system that heightens awareness of shared global issues like pollution, disease, crime, and
terrorism. Essentially, globalization is the amplification of linkages and flows across borders.Most broadly,
Globalization presents challenges to the traditional role of states, the primary actors in international
relations.

CONCEPTS OF GLOBALIZATION

The conceptual confusion surrounding globalization arises from four main definitions: globalization as
internationalization, globalization as liberalization, globalization as universalization, and globalization
as westernization. Discussions based solely on these definitions limit the ability to gain insights beyond
existing vocabulary.

Instead, the term ‘globalization’ encompasses various aspects including expanded international trade,
telecommunications, monetary coordination, multinational corporations, cultural exchanges of new types
and scales, migration and refugee flows, and relations between the world’s rich and poor countries.
(Ghosh,2023: 320)

Scholars like Anthony Giddens (1990), a British sociologist conceptualized globalization as “the
intensification of worldwide social relations which link distant localities in such a way that local happenings
are shaped by events occurring many miles away and vice versa”.

Additionally, the process, known as "glocalization," is described by Professor Roland Robertson, a


British/American sociologist, as a blend formed by telescoping global and local aspects. Robertson's
exploration of Japanese society revealed that the term "glocalization," utilized by Japanese marketing
experts, entails the localization of products of Japanese origin to suit local tastes and interests while
maintaining a global application and reach.In essence, these perspectives blend to illustrate the
interconnected nature of global and local influences in shaping social, cultural, and economic phenomena. [1]

He defines “Globalization as a concept refers both to the compression of the world and the
intensification of consciousness of the world as whole…both concrete global interdependence and
consciousness of the global whole”.

1Khondker, Habibul. (2005). Globalisation to Glocalisation: A Conceptual Exploration. Intellectual


Discourse. 13.
According to David Held, a British political scientist and a notable figure in the field of international
relations and others, “Globalization is a process (or set of processes) that embodies a transformation in the
spatial organization of social relations and transactions, generating transcontinental or interregional flows
and networks of activity, interaction, and power”.

David Harvey’s idea of time-space compression has given a new dimension to the emergence of ‘global
village’.

This definition brings us to the term, “deterritorialization”. The technological revolution accelerates
deterritorialization, diminishing the impact of territorial factors on collective identity and political
recognition. This enables the growth of both global civil society and criminal or terrorist networks.This
interpretation centers the study of globalization on contemporary neoliberal macroeconomic policies.

Globalization is seen as ambitious in nature and totalising in character. It is also the byproduct of the
intertwined nature of politics and economics.It may affect domestic as well as international economy, and
may have spill-over repercussions on national and international politics [2].The essence of globalization lies
in the pervasive influence of global processes, leading to the integration of national cultures, economies, and
borders under a universal umbrella.

To sum up all the above definitions, in words of Steger(political theorist): Globalization refers to a
multidimensional set of social processes that create, multiply, stretch, and intensify worldwide
social interdependencies and exchanges while at the same time fostering in people a growing awareness of
deepening connections between the local and the distant.

Figure: Global Interdependence [3]

CHARACTERISTICS OF GLOBALIZATION

From the above discussion, the following characteristics of globalization can be deduced. (Ghosh, 2023,
321)

1) Opening national economies to foreign capital, direct investment, and technologies signifies efforts
to integrate them into the global economy.
2) Free trade involves the unrestricted flow of trade, eliminating tariff and trade barriers, including the
grant of Most Favoured Nation status.
3) Privatization, integral to liberalization, reduces state control over means of production and
distribution.
4) The proliferation of globalization agents includes multinational corporations and international

2 Chatterjee, A. (2010). International Relations Today: Concepts and Applications. Pearson.


3Heywood, A. (2015). Key Concepts in Politics and International Relations. Bloomsbury Academic, p.83.
institutions like the World Trade Organization, International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank.
5) The information and technological revolution facilitates the rapid global movement of capital, goods,
information, and people.
6) Deterritorialization renders geography irrelevant, particularly in global stock and bond trading and
international financial transactions.
7) Globalized social movements, spanning human rights, women's issues, environmental causes, and
HIV/AIDS, reflect global civic activism.
8) Global governance is achieved through suprastate agencies such as the United Nations, IMF, World
Bank, WTO, and regional arrangements like ASEAN and the European Union.
9) It represents a transition from human geography to economic geography, emphasizing the control of
crucial assets like capital, technology, knowledge, labor skills, natural resources, and consumer
markets through interconnected networks.
10) The process of globalization has been far-reaching and comprehensive, giving rise to a new global
order.
Therefore, globalization is defined by the compression of space, time, and the fading away of borders,
opening up abundant opportunities.

The term "globalization" carries significant emotive force, with diverse perspectives on its implications.
Some see it as a positive and essential process, a catalyst for future global economic growth that is both
inevitable and irreversible. Conversely, there is a faction that views globalization with apprehension and
even fear, contending that it exacerbates inequality, jeopardizes employment and living standards, and
hinders social progress. This provides an outline of various facets of globalization and seeks to explore
ways in which countries can harness its benefits while maintaining a pragmatic awareness of its potential
advantages and risks.

FACTORS OF GLOBALIZATION

Globalization is often explained by focusing on three interrelated factors:


1) technics (involving technological advancements and social organization),
2) economics (encompassing markets and capitalism), and
3) politics (involving power dynamics, interests, and institutions).
The role of technology is crucial, emphasizing the necessity of a modern communications infrastructure for
the existence of a global system or worldwide economy. Additionally, the economic aspect is vital, driven
by capitalism's constant pursuit of new markets and profits, ultimately leading to the globalization of
economic activities. Politics, serving as a shorthand for ideas, interests, and power, constitutes the third
aspect of globalization.If technology provides the physical infrastructure of globalization, politics provides
its normative infrastructure. Governments, such as those of the US, China, Brazil, and the UK, have been
critical actors in nurturing the process of globalization. (Baylis, 2020: 21)

ASPECTS OF GLOBALIZATION-

Globalization comes with various dimensions and brings huge effects to countries across the world.
Countries are left with not much choice but adapting with the changes that suddenly hit them socially,
economically, politically and culturally.

The term globalization encompasses four main aspects of the world economy. Firstly, internationalization
involves an increase in economic transactions across borders, intensifying since the turn of the century.
Secondly, the technological revolution reflects the impact of electronic communication, enabling global
operations with less concern for location. This revolution accelerates deterritorialization, reducing the
influence of territorial factors on collective identity. Lastly, liberalization signifies state policies facilitating
a new global economy, including rules, institutions, and trade, investment, and production liberalization by
both powerful and smaller states. (Baylis, 2008, )

The reference to "globalization scholars and the elephant" likely draws upon the metaphor of the blind men
and the elephant, where each blind man perceives a different part of its body and forms a limited
understanding of the whole. Similarly, globalization scholars approach this complex phenomenon from
various perspectives, often emphasizing specific aspects such as economic,social, cultural, or political
dimensions. The metaphor suggests that globalization requires examining its multifaceted nature,
appreciating how different dimensions interact, and acknowledging the significance of each perspective in
comprehending the whole picture.

Figure : The Globalization Scholars and the Elephant.[4]


ECONOMIC DIMENSION

Globalization is an intricate and multifaceted phenomenon that significantly influences various aspects of
human existence. Among its various dimensions, the economic aspect stands out as the most prominent and
extensive. The key elements of contemporary economic globalization include the breaking down of national
economic barriers, the global expansion of trade, financial transactions, and production activities, as well as
the increasing influence of transnational corporations and international financial institutions.

The end of the Cold War marked a period of increased dominance of market economics, limiting the
influence of nation-states and giving rise to transnational connections. The "End of Ideology" discourse
fueled the ascendancy of major globalizing forces, particularly the "Triumph of Capitalism." Capitalism,
being a highly efficient production system, tends towards marketization, emphasizing freedom from the
control of any particular nation-state. Liberalisation, as the economic ideology of globalization, advocated
for reduced state intervention in the market, promoting concepts like deregulation, privatization, free trade,
and the unrestricted flow of capital worldwide. The adoption of neoliberal policies, coupled with the
expansion of transnational corporations and the proliferation of global production and distribution networks,
marked the initiation of global economic integration, negotiation, and interdependence.

The process of economic globalization unfolded in two phases:

The first phase commenced during World War II, with the Bretton Woods meeting in 1944, where major
global powers, led by the USA and Great Britain, reversed their interwar economic policies. The outcome
was the establishment of three formal institutions: the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to manage
fixed exchange rates and oversee the international monetary system, the International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), also known as the World Bank, to aid war-torn European
countries through loans, and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) to eliminate

4Steger, M. B. (2003). Globalization: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press, UK. p.15
discriminatory trade practices. The Bretton Woods system faltered in the 1970s when the US, under Richard
Nixon, declared the end of dollar-gold exchange.

The second phase unfolded with the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War, paving the
way for the triumph of capitalism. This era witnessed the establishment of an international network among
global financial markets, facilitated by technological advancements like electronic money transfer and
commerce. In the 1990s, a new set of neoliberal policies, known as the "Washington Consensus," gained
traction in developing countries with the backing of the USA, IMF, and World Bank. As formulated by John
Williamson, these policies advocated for a minimalist state and an expanded role for the market. Key
elements included “fiscal discipline, liberalizing trade, promotion of FDI, deregulation of economy,
reduction of public expenditure, tax reforms to broaden the tax base, financial liberalization,
competitive exchange rates, privatization of state enterprises and protection of property rights” [5].
This wave of economic globalization solidified the hegemony of international economic institutions
globally, creating a substantial power imbalance between the global North and South.

Multinational Corporations (MNCs) and Transnational Corporations (TNCs) play a pivotal role in shaping
economic globalization by establishing a widespread presence across multiple countries. These corporations
leverage their global reach to expand operations, fostering economic interconnectedness and influencing the
dynamics of international trade and investment. MNCs typically operate in various nations, establishing
subsidiaries, and adapting strategies to local markets. TNCs take this a step further, operating without a
predominant national identity, seamlessly integrating operations on a global scale. Through their
investments, these corporations create interdependence among economies, facilitating the exchange of
goods, services, and capital. The global impact of MNCs and TNCs extends beyond economic realms,
influencing cultural exchange, technological diffusion, and regulatory dynamics. Their ability to navigate
diverse markets and contribute to the global flow of resources underscores their significant role in shaping
the contours of contemporary globalization.

Let’s understand this with a case study of a MNC-

"IGLOBAL: EXAMINING APPLE'S ROLE IN THE ERA OF ECONOMIC GLOBALIZATION"

Apple Inc. is a multinational corporation based in the United States, with its stocks traded on both the New
York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ under the symbol AAPL. The company focuses on designing,
developing, and manufacturing electronic devices such as computers, software, and smartphones. Apple is
widely recognized for its hardware products, including the iPhone, Macintosh, iPad, and iPod. Additionally,
the company provides a diverse range of software offerings, spanning operating systems to entertainment
and educational software suites for its customers.

CULTURAL DIMENSION

The theme of globalization and culture has been firmly established, originating from Ronald Robertson's
1992 work titled "Globalisation: Social Theory and Global Culture." He says that Globalization has had a
profound impact on our cultures and lifestyles, influencing various aspects such as food preferences,
clothing choices, music, literature, and even language.As technology and communication have advanced,

5Unit-11 Globalization. Egyankosh.Ac.In, 2021. p-149


expanding the scope of globalization, there has been ongoing analysis of culture in various
dimensions.Today, cultural practices have escaped the prison of fixed localities such as town and nation,
eventually acquiring new meanings in interaction with dominant global themes (Steger, 2017: 81). The
narrative of cultural globalization has taken different courses.

Robert Holton (2000) conducted an analysis of global interconnectedness using three main themes :
a) Homogenization implies the tendency for cultures, societies, or economic systems to become more
similar or uniform. He observed that global culture has adopted a standardized form based on
Western or American patterns, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as “McDonaldization” or
“Americanization”. The rapid and widespread reach of the communications revolution has
transformed the world into a global village, facilitated by multinational companies that have created
a unified global market. Factors such as jet travel, affordable telephone services, food chains, email,
computers, large oceangoing vessels, and instantaneous capital flows have intensified global
interdependence.Some scholars argue that this leads to a cultural hegemony, reinforcing the
political and economic dominance of the United States.On the other hand, amidst the process of
globalization, there is a rise in inter-ethnic, intercultural, and inter-religious conflicts, intensifying
rather than mitigating. People, seeking their cultural roots, are challenging the notion of a singular
and homogenizing cultural norm which leads to “Cultural Nationalism”.
b) In this context, polarization presents a more compelling narrative of global cultural
development,emphasizing the presence of cultural alternatives and resistance to Western norms.
c) Within the concept of hybridization, cultures engage in borrowing and incorporating elements from
one another, resulting in the creation of hybrid and syncretic forms. Some scholars describe this
phenomenon as "glocal" or "glocalization." In the new global era, subaltern groups and indigenous
peoples are actively asserting and defending their local cultural and social identities against the
backdrop of globalization.[6]

The concepts of interdependence, integration, and information have heightened the trend of moving beyond
national cultures in favor of a new global culture i.e “Culture of Consumerism”. This consumerist culture
is shaped by social arrangements that extend beyond national and territorial boundaries, encompassing
aspects such as production, consumption, tastes, beliefs, commitments, meanings, and values. Modern
media, particularly social media and other rapid communication channels, play a crucial role as drivers of
cultural globalization, marking the era of 'media imperialism.'

Social media, in particular, is emerging as an unparalleled tool that influences public opinion, connects
people across diverse domains and cultures, and encourages participation without being confined by
geographical limitations. The digital space has witnessed an explosion and expansion, diminishing the
significance of other physical spaces and causing the world to exist predominantly in cyberspace.
Cyberspace serves as a platform for interactions, conversations, searching, creating, and sharing ideas,
information, and culture without territorial constraints.

This era of globalization has transformed power structures by blurring national borders. Notably, societal
status is increasingly dependent on the amplification of information and communication rather than solely
on financial resources. This transformation is fostering new relationships that go beyond traditional ties of
kinship, creed, and nationality.

One of the key challenges in contemporary global interactions is the tension between cultural
homogenization and cultural heterogenization, as noted by scholar Arjun Appadurai. Hence, Scholars such

6Wang, Yi (2007), Globalisation Enhances Cultural Identity, Intercultural Communication Studies, XVI, p- 83.
as Mc Luhan discuss the potential outcomes of global integration and the formation of a “global village”
through the process of globalization, leading to cultural integration across borders. However, there are
concerns about cultural marginalization and exclusion. The flow of goods, ideas, people, and capital on a
global scale is perceived as a potential threat to national cultures. In essence, there is a delicate balance
between the integration of cultures across borders and the apprehension of cultural marginalization in the
face of globalization.

Let’s understand this dimension with a case study-

"CULTURAL FUSION: YOGA'S JOURNEY FROM INDIA TO THE WORLD"

Narendra Modi once said, “ In this century we realise that Yoga has united the world. Like Yoga connects
body, mind, and soul similarly today Yoga is connecting the world”.[7]

The origins of Yoga trace back to around 2700 BC, during the Indus-Saraswati Valley Civilization, and it
was even practiced in the pre-Vedic period. Though originated from the Sanskritic cultural background, it
drew influences from the three major Indian religious traditions: Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism.
Maharishi Patanjali, regarded as the father of traditional yoga, organized and systematized ancient
practices in his treatise ‘Yoga Sutra’.In its original Indian version, ‘yoga was a philosophically grounded set
of practices designed to facilitate spiritual enlightenment’(Strauss, 2005: 5). Yoga serves as a transformative
tool for achieving "Self-Realization”. It comprises ethical, physical and mental practices. The practice of
yoga has been dynamic over time, exhibiting significant variation in its application.

The diffusion of yoga to the Western world has been a gradual process spanning over a century.
Vivekananda played a pivotal role in reshaping the understanding of yoga. His introduction of yoga to the
Western audience at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, and subsequent reinterpretation for the Indian
populace marked a significant shift in the perception of this ancient system of ideas and practices. The
globalization of yoga gained momentum, notably in the 1960s, when Westerners exploring the 'hippie trail'
in India encountered it and reintroduced it to their home countries.Hence, increased travel and cultural
exchange facilitated the global spread of yoga. Individuals, including spiritual teachers and practitioners,
traveled between East and West, sharing yogic practices and philosophies.

Following India's independence from British rule in 1947, a surge in nationalism and interest in Indian
traditions prompted a revival of yoga. This coincided with a historical moment that facilitated the
introduction of yoga and meditation to the West. The spread of yoga abroad not only increased its
popularity but also brought about significant changes in its perception. While yoga had traditionally been
viewed as a science with a strong spiritual dimension, its transformation into a health practice gained
momentum, particularly through health and spiritual tourism retreats.In the words of Sarah, ‘Yoga in the
western context was seen as a way to reconnect with the spiritual world, reduce stress, and regain health and
freedom’ (Strauss, 2005 : 6).This focus on health and fitness aligns with the markers of modernity, allowing
yoga to integrate into Western culture by promising physical well-being and emphasizing the practical
aspects of the practice rather than its doctrinal ideas.

The accessibility of yoga through classes, books, DVDs, and online platforms has made it a convenient and
widely adopted practice. Yoga serves as a practical and cost-effective approach to governing and shaping the
body, promoting mental relaxation, and preventing illness. It empowers individuals to manage the inevitable

7Globalisation of - YOGA. (2021, June 2). Ayush Yoga. Retrieved December 17, 2023, from
https://yoga.ayush.gov.in/ministryofayush/yoga_global.pdf. p.2
aspects of life, particularly the effects of entropy.

In the 1900s, yoga's portrayal in popular literature shifted to emphasize its health and fitness benefits,
aligning with Western ideals of progress and modernity. The conventional images of ascetic yogis, often
depicted as thin or large-bellied older men in white or orange dhotis, were deemed unappealing to most
Westerners. These images were associated with a life of renunciation, non-materialism, poverty, and lack of
ambition. The revised marketing strategy focused on fit, strong, and virile bodies, symbolizing progress and
wealth.This “Image-Centric culture” gave rise to a new industry with the sale of yoga accessories,
including latex tights. Yoga-related merchandise, classes, retreats, and teacher training programs have
become lucrative industries, contributing to the commodification of what was originally a profound cultural
and spiritual practice.Thus giving rise to Consumerism and Commercialization of yoga.

Traditional yoga emphasizes finding true happiness through internal exploration, transcending the outer
world. In its transmission to the West, however, the focus shifted from transcending the physical to
perfecting the body. The deeper essence of yoga, centered on inner understanding, became somewhat lost in
favor of a message promoting balance, fitness, and personal freedom as the contemporary definition of
liberation.This leads to “Cultural Appropriation”.

Therefore, Some scholars argue that Western values of materialism and progress may clash with traditional
yoga and spiritual principles. However, yoga has been readily adapted to diverse cultures and worldviews by
emphasizing physical aspects like postural and Hatha yoga, often excluding the ethical and spiritual
components.The appeal lies in a regimen that cultivates a robust, healthy body and a calm mind.Yoga's
affordability, flexibility, and stress-management benefits make it universally appealing, with the optional
inclusion of religious beliefs and language.Therefore, Yoga has being “Standardized” and “Simplified”,
reducing complex philosophical and spiritual aspects into easily digestible, market-friendly forms.

By the end of the 20th century, yoga had become widely accessible worldwide, facilitated by its
commercialization and globalization. While these two developments are distinct, they are interconnected.
During this period, the concept of yoga underwent adaptations to align with evolving social and political
needs through the establishment of new institutions and discourses. Yoga's integration into diverse societies
was influenced by health, wellness, and fitness cultures, spiritual practices, and the expansion of media
connectivity. These influences framed yoga as a tool for comprehensive life guidance, with its growing
popularity often attributed to the pressures of expanding capitalisms.The original spiritual goal of yoga,
centered on freedom from the material world, had to be rebranded and even inverted to gain acceptance in
Western culture. This is the “Cultural Homogenization” of Yoga as the image developed by western
culture was adopted by every other country in the world.

Yoga's global expansion aligns with the emerging concept of "cosmopolitanism," characterized by a shared
humanity and transnational community. This ethos, rooted in the idea of interdependence that transcends
geographical boundaries, complements the eco-sustainability movement. Together, they contribute to the
creation of a worldwide culture that draws inspiration from the ancient ideals of yoga.

LOCAL YOGA GOES GLOBAL

The Indian government's efforts to promote Indian values and culture globally saw success when the UN
General Assembly approved a resolution, led by India, declaring June 21st as “International Day of
Yoga”. This resolution, co-sponsored by around 175 nations, reflects the increasing influence of Indian
culture on the world stage. Yoga, introduced from ancient times, is now embraced universally, offering
physical benefits to people worldwide.

In India's pursuit of cultural globalization, Yoga is considered a valuable gift from its ancient tradition to
humanity. It encourages exploration of spiritual, emotional, and intellectual heights, tapping into innate
strengths. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, promoting harmony with nature and a holistic approach
to well-being. It goes beyond physical exercise, serving as a means to discover oneness with oneself, the
world, and nature.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), Yoga was
documented as the most popular form of complementary therapy practiced by more than 13 million adults. [8]

Additionally, Yoga presents a significant business opportunity for India, with the global market for Yoga
services valued at $37.5 billion in 2019 and expected to grow to $66.22 billion by 2027.[9]

The significance of Yoga has grown notably during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the crucial role
of a robust immune system in preventing infections. Numerous Yoga asanas have been identified for
enhancing the body's immunity. Medical science is increasingly recognizing Yoga's importance for fostering
a healthy lifestyle, with research papers, including one from IIT Delhi, supporting its benefits. A study at
AIIMS, Rishikesh, indicated that compound prānāyāma and diaphragmatic breathing expedited the recovery
of glaucoma patients by 20 percent. Global research on Yoga has shown promising outcomes in managing
psychotherapy and lifestyle disorders, while also demonstrating effectiveness in addressing issues like lower
back pain and frequent stress.

The scientific studies indicate a simultaneous rise in the popularity of yoga in Western countries, notably
the United States, Germany, Australia, and the United Kingdom, after 2015. Noteworthy instances support
this observation. In 2018, a Lancet report addressed the potential positive effects of yoga on youth education
outcomes (cognition; academic performance; psychosomatic, social, and physiological measures, etc). A
survey by Gothe and colleagues in 2019 identified yoga as the most popular complementary health approach
among adults in the United States. A UK survey in 2020 revealed that yoga is utilized to manage health
conditions and support well-being. Dr. Holger Cramer reported an increasing number of yoga therapy
clinical trials in Germany in 2018, foreseeing its acceptance within the German healthcare system. Scientists
from various countries endorsed the potential of yoga for COVID-19 related mental health issues,
emphasizing its benefits reported during lockdowns. Indian authors highlighted yoga as an effective self-
management strategy to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression during the COVID-19 lockdown.

The demand for Yoga teachers is high, especially in Western developed countries, and the market for Yoga
equipment grew substantially during the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a global shortage of Yoga teachers,
with an estimated need for 1 million teachers due to the increasing popularity of Yoga. Choosing Yoga as a
career is seen as a sound decision, offering prosperous opportunities in countries like the US, Europe, China,
Vietnam, and Australia. India, being a service economy, has a significant opportunity to tap into this
demand.

The institutionalization, modernization and globalization of yoga have brought attention to the psycho-
physical dimensions of traditional yoga. Experimental studies, adopting a modern double-blind approach,
are being conducted, but there's an observation that traditional yoga objectives might be getting

8Ibid. p-26
9Unit-2 Globalization and Evolving Paradigm, Egyankosh.Ac.In,
2022.http://egyankosh.ac.in//handle/123456789/90042
overshadowed.

CONCLUSION

Contemporary globalization is a multidimensional, uneven, and asymmetrical process. • Contemporary


globalization is best described as a thick form of globalization or globalism.

In conclusion, the globalization of the art of yoga represents a multifaceted transformation, intertwining
global values with the rich cultural heritage of India. While the widespread adoption of yoga has facilitated
cross-cultural dialogue and offered holistic well-being practices to a global audience, it has also spurred
challenges such as cultural appropriation, commodification, and the potential dilution of its spiritual essence.
The commodification of yoga has led to a fusion of Eastern traditions with Western consumerism, raising
questions about authenticity and the preservation of cultural integrity. As the ancient practice continues to
evolve on the global stage, it is crucial to navigate these dynamics thoughtfully, recognizing the need for
cultural respect, sensitivity, and an inclusive approach that preserves the sacredness and depth of yoga's
origins. The case of yoga serves as a microcosm reflecting broader discussions on the globalization of
cultural practices and underscores the importance of fostering a balanced integration that respects diverse
cultural perspectives while embracing the shared benefits of a globalized world.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1) Unit-11 Globalization. Egyankosh.Ac.In, 2021. http://egyankosh.ac.in//handle/123456789/71234


2) Unit-6 Globalization-Cultural and Technological Dimensions. (2021). eGyanKosh.
https://egyankosh.ac.in/handle/123456789/76732
3) Scholte, J. A. (2017). Globalization: A Critical Introduction. Palgrave Macmillan
4) Baylis, J., Smith, S., & Owens, P. (2008). The Globalization of World Politics: An Introduction to
International Relations - 4th Edition. Oxford University Press.
5) Ghosh, P. (2023). International Relations. Prentice Hall India Pvt., Limited.
6) Steger, M. B. (2003). Globalization: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press, UK.
7) Baylis, J., Smith, S., & Owens, P. (Eds.). (2020). The Globalization of World Politics: An Introduction
to International Relations - 8th Edition. Oxford University Press.
8) Holton, Robert (2000), Globalisation’s Cultural Consequences, American Academy of Political and
Social Science, Vol. 570, July, 140-152.
9) Strauss, S. (2005). Positioning Yoga: Balancing Acts Across Cultures. Berg Publishers.p -5-6
10) The Globalization of Yoga. (n.d.). Conscious Health Institute.
https://www.conscioushealthinstitute.org/research/the-globalization-of-yoga
11) Globalisation of - YOGA. (2021, June 2). Ayush
Yoga.https://yoga.ayush.gov.in/ministryofayush/yoga_global.pdf.
12) Black, S. (2022, November 29). Contemporary Globalized and Commercialized Yoga - Hinduism.
Oxford Bibliographies. https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com/display/document/obo-
9780195399318/obo-9780195399318-0260.xml
13)

You might also like