Overview
The lecture discussed various perspectives on the origin and development of globalization as a contemporary issue.
Perspectives on the Emergence of Globalization
- There are five main views on the history of globalization.
- First, according to Nayan Chanda, it is inherent in humans to trade, spread faith, and travel for a better life.
- Second, according to Schulte, globalization has gone through many cycles and continues to evolve.
- Third, according to Thurborn, there are six epochs or waves of globalization starting from the 4th century.
- Fourth, globalization is traced to specific historical events such as the Roman conquest and the spread of Christianity and Islam.
- Fifth, globalization supposedly began in the mid-20th century due to political and economic changes.
Six Epochs of Globalization (According to Thurborn)
- First wave: 4th to 5th century, globalization of religion (Christianity and Islam).
- Subsequent waves: European conquests in the 15th century; wars in Europe (18th-19th century); Western imperialism (nineteenth century to 1918).
- After World War II: The world was divided into communism and capitalism.
- Post-Cold War: Capitalism prevailed and the flow of products, ideas, and technology accelerated.
Specific Events/Dates of Globalization
- Roman conquest, spread of Christianity, expansion of Islam and Vikings.
- Trade in the Mediterranean and the rise of banking in Italy in the 12th century.
- Invention of the telephone/transatlantic cable, jet travel, satellite images of the world, and the 9/11 attack.
Changes That Drove Globalization (20th Century)
- The rise of the United States as a global power after World War II.
- The increase of multinational/transnational corporations focused on developing nations.
- The fall of the Soviet Union and the opening of former communist countries to global interaction.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Globalization — the process of faster connections among countries in economy, politics, and culture.
- Perspective — a stance or point of view in analyzing an issue.
- Epoch/Wave — a specific stage or period of change in globalization.
- Multinational/transnational corporations — companies operating in more than one country.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Answer: What do you think was the reason globalization started?
- Read and review again the different perspectives on the origin of globalization.