Globalization vs. Cultural Diversity Today’s LEQ: How does globalization impact cultural diversity?

What Is Globalization? Process of interaction and integration among the people, companies, and governments of different nations Process of interaction and integration among the people, companies, and governments of different nations Driven by international trade and investment Driven by international trade and investment

What Is Cultural Diversity? Cultural variety – differences that exist in the world Cultural variety – differences that exist in the world –For example, a dying language is a threat to cultural diversity

Geography Matters… A place is defined both by site and situation A place is defined both by site and situation –Site = location on earth –Situation = location relative to other places

It’s All Relative… Generally speaking… Generally speaking… –Places close together = high levels of interaction and change –Isolated places = little interaction and change

Environment & Culture Create Distinction North Korea North Korea U.S. U.S.

Impact of Exploration New sea routes allow for global trade New sea routes allow for global trade –Changes the marketplace – from local to global Cultures mix Cultures mix Common language results Common language results

The New Debate… Does globalization mean less cultural diversity? Does globalization mean less cultural diversity? –McDonaldization –Architecture –Clothing trends –Music –Technology –Language

Critics of Globalization Believe globalization destroys cultural diversity Believe globalization destroys cultural diversity Believe globalization creates problem of neocolonialism Believe globalization creates problem of neocolonialism –The dominance of strong nations over weak nations, not by direct political control, but by economic and cultural influence –For example, Ghana gained its independence from Great Britain in 1957 but was still economically dependent

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