Globalization is not all good - there are cons to it as well. For example, there is a strong argument that globalization, with its creation of cultural diffusion (discussed in earlier post "Globalization?") has destroyed the specific characteristics of cultures in the world. For example, since people are now much more open to new cultures, the old cultures are slowly being eroded and there are fears that in future, the beauty of a country's historical culture will be lost thanks to globalization. There have also been fears that globalization will homogenize the world, making each country lose its unique aspects and charm.
People have also raised controversial issues about whether globalisation is merely a front for "Americanism", where America is the country which benefits the most and has the most to gain from globalization. Altogether, anti-globalisation is a broad term encompassing many aspects of globalization to which groups of people have disagreed upon (an example would be the argument that globalization is a front for mere corporate interests and the generation of wealth in countries such as America).
An example of a cartoon showcasing globalisation in a less-than-favourable light can be seen here.
Simply, this cartoon shows the earth pressing on the glass door of a house, seeming as though it is about to break in. A man is sitting on the couch reading a newspaper, and globalization is obviously the main theme of the cartoon. The fact that the globe is pressing dangerously against the door is a sign that perhaps, globalization has been 'overdone' and has crossed the limit for many people. It is now an impending 'threat' to our homes and this is clearly a negative portrayal of globalization as a whole. This probably tells people who see this cartoon that globalization cannot be stopped, and now has become an integral part of our lives that we cannot avoid.
This is mostly true; globalization is a global ongoing process that has been set in motion and there is not much we can do to stop it from happening as the world changes. The probable intention of portraying globalization in a negative light can also be somewhat explained, as can be seen from the first two paragraphs. Altogether, I feel that the cartoonist, through this cartoon/drawing, is trying to convey the message that globalization is something the world cannot stop or avoid, and it will not be good for us, whether in the short term, or in the long run.
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2 comments:
There is a possibility that globalization can indeed cause a country to lose its sense of uniqueness, the characteristics of the country that sets it apart from the rest. However, the government of the country need not sit back and allow the above to happen. Since it is inevitable for globalization to spread, the least countries could do to preserve their very own identity is to implement measures such as the reinforcement of the learning of the country's culture and heritage for the students at a young age.
It is true that more effort is needed to retain a country's idenity with globalization but it is not impossible as long as the leaders of a country and the citizens are willing to commit themselves to doing so.
From your post: "Altogether, I feel that the cartoonist, through this cartoon/drawing, is trying to convey the message that globalization is something the world cannot stop or avoid, and it will not be good for us, whether in the short term, or in the long run. "
However, how can globalisation not be beneficial for us? I do agree that globalisation has certain negative impacts on the world such as that you mentioned in your post-lost of diversity of cultures. However, globalisation allows for economic development, which will improve standards of living. This will greatly improve man's lives and be beneficial for man.
cultural/technological expert Yeo Jia Wen
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