Republic of the Philippines

Laguna State Polytechnic University

Province of Laguna

GEC 103: The Contemporary World

Module 1: Global Economy

Assignment #2: Collage

Submitted by:
Leron, Jennylyn Xyrrielle D.
1st Year Mathematics Major

Submitted to:
Prof. Bryant Bennet Atencia
February 25, 2024
 Intersections of Globalization, Trade, and Poverty: Navigating
Development Challenges

In the collage I've put together, I've tried to capture the intricate relationship between
globalization, trade, and poverty, with a strong focus on how initiatives like the Millennium
Development Goals (MDGs) can help overcome developmental hurdles. For me, the MDGs
symbolize a global commitment to combat inequality, poverty, hunger, and illness. These eight
goals serve as a guide, directing our collective efforts towards targeted initiatives aimed at
improving the lives of the world's most vulnerable populations.

Surrounding the MDGs in the collage are images depicting trade and globalization,
illustrating the intricate web of interconnected trade routes, networks, and international
marketplaces that define our modern world. I'm fascinated by how advancements in
technology, communication, and transportation drive globalization, fostering greater economic
collaboration and prosperity on a global scale. However, I'm also aware of the important issues
it raises, such as income inequality, environmental sustainability, and worker rights.

One special section of the collage is dedicated to explaining the concept of globalization
through illustrations and key phrases, highlighting its multifaceted nature and its broad
implications across various fields like politics, economics, culture, and the environment. My
intention with this section is to foster a deeper understanding and critical analysis of
globalization's effects.

Adjacent to this section are images that portray the inequalities and challenges
associated with globalization, reflecting the diverse voices and perspectives on the topic. I
acknowledge the concerns raised by social movements, activists, and academics regarding the
unequal distribution of globalization's benefits and drawbacks, as well as its potential to erode
local autonomy and sovereignty.

Lastly, the collage features images related to microcredit, showcasing its vital role in
alleviating poverty and fostering economic independence within the context of globalization.
I'm drawn to the concept of microcredit as a grassroots approach to development that
emphasizes financial inclusion and community participation as key drivers of sustainable
progress.

Overall, my collage aims to visually explore the complex interactions between poverty,
trade, and globalization, inviting viewers to consider the diverse viewpoints and potential
pathways towards promoting equitable and sustainable development worldwide. Through this
visual medium, I hope to spark reflection and dialogue on these important global issues.
 Exploring Global Stratification Through Visual Collage: Modernization Theory,
Dependency, and Historical Context

In this graphic collage, I delve into the opposing viewpoints of dependency and
modernization theory to dissect the intricate nature of global inequality. At its core lies
modernization theory, depicted in the upper left corner. It proposes a linear progression of
societies from traditional agrarian forms to modern industrial structures, symbolized by a
staircase representing societal growth. This perspective champions processes like
industrialization and urbanization as pathways to global prosperity, radiating optimism for
advancement and wealth.

Contrastingly, the upper right corner portrays a collage of historical events such as
colonialism, imperialism, and the industrial revolution. These pivotal moments have sculpted
political alliances, economic systems, and cultural dynamics, leaving an indelible mark on
global stratification. The narrative here revolves around the expansion of capitalism, the
exploitation of colonial economies, and the resultant unequal distribution of resources,
emphasizing the enduring legacies of historical injustices and power imbalances.

At the heart of the collage lies a vibrant metropolis, embodying the essence of
modernization theory. Urbanization, technological innovation, and economic prosperity are
vividly depicted through skyscrapers, highways, and technological infrastructure. This central
image paints a compelling picture of development, capturing the allure of progress.

Yet, the lower left corner unveils the shortcomings of modernization, shedding light on
its flawed narrative. Stark contrasts between impoverished urban centers and neglected rural
communities serve as a poignant reminder of persistent disparities often overlooked by
modernization theory. Moreover, it underscores how modernization tends to disregard
historical contexts and cultural diversity, overlooking the struggles of marginalized
populations.

Lastly, the bottom right corner unveils a global map illustrating economic dependencies
between core and peripheral states, epitomizing dependency theory. Arrows symbolizing
capital, resource, and labor flows reveal how the global economy favors affluent countries at
the expense of developing ones. This perspective challenges the notion of progress championed
by modernization theory, highlighting the structural exploitation and inequality embedded
within the global economic system.

Through deliberate design, the collage call viewers to engage critically with the
complexities of global stratification. It fosters a nuanced understanding of the factors
underpinning global inequality by contrasting aspects of dependency theory, modernization
theory, and historical context. Recognizing the enduring realities of exploitation and
dependence, it prompts viewers to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of modernization.
Ultimately, the collage serves as a visual testament to the intricate interplay of forces shaping
our world and underscores the imperative of addressing inequity in all its forms.