Contemporary World Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Discussion on consumption habits: fast food (Jollibee, McDonald's), subscriptions (Netflix), gaming purchases (Mobile Legends, Dota), luxury items (Starbucks, Apple products).
• Contemporary world: modern world we live in, characterized by interconnectedness.

Key Concepts

Global Age

• Definition: A period characterized by a sense of interconnectedness among all human beings.
• Focus on common faith for survival and shared culture despite geographical differences.

Globalization

• Definition: A process of interaction and integration among people, companies, and governments of different nations.
  • Two Main Components:
    • Interaction
    • Integration
• Driven by international trade, investment, and aided by information technology.
• Effects of globalization:
  • Environmental impact (e.g., climate change)
  • Cultural adaptation (e.g., K-pop influence)
  • Political and economic effects on development and well-being.

Characteristics of Globalization

1. Liberalization and Global Integration of Market
   • Emphasis on freedom to choose and engage in business.
2. Inevitability and Irreversibility
   • Globalization cannot be undone; it is an ongoing process.
3. Lack of Central Control
   • No single entity controls globalization; individuals play a role.
4. Long-term Benefits
   • Overall benefits for humanity, despite disadvantages for some.
5. Spread of Democracy
   • Promotion of majority rule and protection of minorities.
6. Global War on Terror
   • Need to address conflicts arising from globalization.

Conceptualizing Globalization

Definitions by Ritzer

• Globalization as a transplanetary process with increasing liquidity and multi-directional flows.

Processes in Globalization

1. Creation of Transnational Individuals
   • Interconnectedness across cultures and traditions.
2. Formation of Social Groups
   • Rise of new communities and identities.
3. Emergence of Globality
   • New social conditions resulting from globalization.

Metaphors in Understanding Globalization

• Solidity vs. Liquidity
  • Limited mobility (solidity) vs. increased movement (liquidity).
• Flow
  • Movement of information and people affected by barriers.

Historical Perspectives on Globalization

Four Origins of Globalization

1. Hardwired Theory
   • Urge for better life drives globalization.
2. Cycle Theory
   • Globalization as a continuous cycle without clear start or finish.
3. Epochs
   • Different periods marking significant globalization events (e.g., colonialism, technological advances).
4. Recent Changes
   • Emergence of the US as a power post-WWII, rise of multinational corporations, end of the Cold War.

Conclusion

• Contemporary world is marked by globalization and interconnectedness.
• Further exploration of globalization's effects and historical context in future sessions.