Globalization

Globalization Is a process that links people around the world as a result of shared activities and interests. Fueled by technology and an expanding communication network, globalization creates cultural, social, environmental, health and economic connections among countries.

Economy Globalization has led to major economic changed worldwide. These changes may be seen as positive or negative, depending on personal, political, social and cultural values and beliefs. They include: New trade arrangements that facilitate the exchange of goods among countries The growth and development of multi-national corporations An interconnected global economy and overlapping financial markets Improved ability to share manufacturing expertise and equipment, resulting in more efficient production Increased availability of workers The shifting of jobs among countries Evolving labour practice Different methods of matching workers’ abilities and job requirements

Environmental The environment contains a variety of shared resources, such as the atmosphere, land, oceans, and rivers, that are affected by the decisions and actions of people in many countries. Responsibility for these resources also must be shared, with countries working together to develop ways to protect and sustain the environment. These global interactions have both a positive and negative affect on wildlife, plants and human health.

Animals and plants benefit in many ways from global interactions: Endangered wildlife programs support and preserve threaten species Developing nations benefit from information about more effective crop growing techniques Alternative energy technology is shared among nations, reducing the need for fossil fuels

Increased global interaction, however, also threatens animals (including humans) and plants: invasive species harm non-native ecosystems illegal animal trafficking puts species at risk increased agricultural use of land to meet global food demands results in deforestation and loss of animal habitats Increase pollution (land, air, water, …) which affects food, drinking water, air quality.

Technology Technology is a driving force of globalization. The increased speed of data transfer and the rapid spread of affordable electronic devices facilitate communication. For example: Computers, the Internet, digital cameras, cell phones and satellite TV and radio provide instant access to updated information and images. Teleconferencing simplifies the immediate transfer of knowledge to assist in time-critical events, such as medical procedures, or to allow teachers to instruct students in multiple locations simultaneously

Advanced technology, however, may create security issues with personal data online and may expose children to predatory individuals and inappropriate material. In addition, instant unconfirmed media reports and unverified content on personal websites may result in the spread of inaccurate information.

Culture Increased interaction with people in other countries leads to greater awareness of differing cultures. Travel, educational exchange programs, books, movies music and technology tools like the internet result in more contact among people around the world. Globalization can build cultural connections: The ability to speak multiple languages increases communication and promotes understanding among nations People develop a deeper appreciation for the diversity of the human race Countries with greater wealth become aware of struggles in developing nations, resulting in the relief programs and other assistance

Globalization also may have unfavorable effects on individual societies, jeopardizing traditional ways of life and reducing diversification among cultures. In addition, strong cultures or large nations may try to impose their values and societal behaviors on smaller or weaker cultures and nations.

Health Globalization leads to improved health care worldwide, especially in developing countries, by Simplifying the distribution of medicine Making vaccines more readily available Encouraging the exchange of information about disease prevention and treatment Promoting medical training and healthy living practices

But just as people travel thousands of miles by airplane, disease-causing microbes also can move rapidly throughout countries around the world. Humans, animals, food, and consumer goods may carry dangerous micro-organisms that cause disease like malaria, HIV, measles, tuberculosis, and food born illnesses.