1. 1 DD122 An Introduction to the Social Sciences – II A Globalization Society Dr. Faisal Al-Qahtani

2. 2 Introduction Globalization:  A multi-dimensional process: cultural, economic, and political. Globalization constitutes a shift in the geography of the local and global social relations. Associated with unequal economic and power relations. The effects of globalization are geographically uneven.  Interpreting globalization Positive view: benefits Pessimistic view : risks, threats to local culture and places

3. 3 Defining Globalization: Understanding Global Change Defining characteristics of globalization:  Stretched social relations: cultural, economic, and political processes stretching across nation-state boundaries.  Intensification of flows: increased density of communication and interaction.  Interpenetration: cultural interpenetration: McDonalds.  Global infrastructure: information and communication; the technologies provide the infrastructure of interaction that supports the growth of global market.

4. 4 Theories of Globalization Globalist:  Globalization is an inevitable development that is dramatically changing the social and economic context. Pessimistic Optimistic

5. 5 Theories of Globalization Traditionalist:  Skeptical about globalization.  Effects are exaggerated.  Most economic and social activity is regional.  A significant role of nation-state.

6. 6 Theories of Globalization Transformationalist:  Significant transformation is taking place.  Globalization is a set of complex interconnecting relationships though which power is exercises indirectly.  But, outcomes are not predetermined: impacts are not inevitable.  National and local agencies (nation-states) still have a significant scope.

7. 7 Evidence of globalization Stretching of social and economic relations. Increased intensification of flows that cross the globe:  Communication technologies  Global cultural phenomena  Trade  Migration

8. 8 Evidence of globalization Extensive interpenetration of economic and social practices:  US culture  Export of goods  International food: e.g., Chinese restaurants

9. 9 Evidence of globalization Emergence of global infrastructure:  Internet  Information and communication tech.: mobile phone networks  Global financial markets  WTO

10. 10 Questions Comments