What is globalization?-- YU JIE(여결)

 

1. Summary of the Reading

Globalization is a complex and multidimensional process, characterized by the increasing interconnectedness of the world and the growing awareness of humanity as a whole. It is not a single phenomenon but a comprehensive development across the economic, political, cultural, and social spheres, and is therefore often regarded as a contested concept.

In the economic sphere, globalization is reflected in the expansion of multinational corporations, the flow of capital across borders, and the spread of free trade and open markets. While economic globalization has integrated global production and consumption, it has also deepened inequality, giving rise to the “anti-globalization movement.” This movement highlights that globalization carries both a “top-down” dimension of imposition and a “bottom-up” dimension of response and resistance.

In the political sphere, globalization involves changes in state sovereignty, global governance, and the international system. Nation-states have not disappeared; instead, they have been transformed within the globalization process. Issues such as migration and multiculturalism have reshaped national identities, while global concerns such as human rights and environmental protection have become unavoidable, showing the tension and coexistence between globalization and the nation-state.

In the cultural and social spheres, globalization is seen in the transnational flow of ideas, values, and lifestyles. The spread of global brands and cultural symbols has promoted homogeneity, but local adaptations give rise to “glocalization.” This shows that globalization is not mere uniformity but a dynamic interaction of similarity and difference. Moreover, globalization has transformed patterns of social interaction, from cross-border communication in earlier times to the digital connectivity of the internet age.

From a historical perspective, globalization is not entirely new; its roots can be traced to early world systems and cross-regional exchanges. However, after the end of the Cold War and the fall of the Berlin Wall, it became a central academic and political issue. Overall, globalization can be understood as both the expansion of interconnectedness and the deepening of global consciousness, shaping profound changes in economic, political, cultural, and social life, and continuing to influence the direction of the contemporary world.

2. New, Interesting, or Unusual Insights

Globalization is not endless expansion but a self-limiting process. Every global practice must be localized, so it creates both unity and diversity, making a “fully globalized” world impossible.

Nation-states and individuals are also central to globalization. States enable global connections, while individuals reshape their identities through the internet and cross-cultural exchanges, bringing globalization into everyday life.

Globalization is not only about connectivity but also about global consciousness. It encourages people to view issues from a world perspective, yet this awareness fosters both cooperation and conflict.

3. Identify at Least One Question or Concern

Globalization faces disagreements in definition. Different disciplines and regions hold diverse understandings, leading to fragmented research and inconsistent policies.

Globalization also involves contradictions. Economic expansion has brought inequality and sparked anti-globalization movements, while nation-states both drive globalization and struggle with multiculturalism and identity crises.

In cultural and consciousness terms, globalization does not create consensus but intensifies conflicts and divisions. With no clear endpoint, its future remains uncertain, drawing continuous attention and concern.

Conclusion

Globalization is not a single path or fixed outcome, but a multi-layered and contested phenomenon. It involves interactions across economic, political, social, and cultural domains, while generating complex tensions between states, individuals, and global consciousness. Globalization both strengthens connections and shared identities, and creates differences and conflicts. Therefore, it should be understood as an ongoing, evolving process full of uncertainties, requiring continuous reflection and dialogue.