Arguments Against Globalization

Though the true definition of the term "globalization" is often disputed about, it is generally defined as the increased interdependence of national economies and cultures due to the movement of services, goods, technological innovations, information and capital. Globalization has generated much debate because of its varying concerns. Not only does it increase inequality and promote environmental degradation, but more importantly, it is believed to widen the gap between the rich and the poor. This can certainly lead to more tensions within and between countries. Given today's society, there is no need for more conflicts to arise, when we are already and still fighting a major war in Iraq. Of course, we could also argue that technological advances have helped in the speeding up of the globalization process. With new improvements in technology, most notably the Internet, globalization is gradually worsening the quality of life for people in various locations around the world. While the rich are gaining more assets, the poor are sinking deeper and deeper into financial troubles.

One everyday example of globalization at work is something we normally take for granted, but is turning out to have drastic effects: fast food restaurants. Places like McDonald's and Burger King are staples to the economy of America, but they are expanding their horizons to locations in other countries around the world. As a result, obesity is on the rise, not just here in America, but in other places as well. Yet we continue to overlook that problem because of the revenue that McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's and other fast food joints tend to bring in. Thus, even though globalization may force companies to take different approaches and see things in different light, it generally brings about cultural changes on a global scale.

"Globalization, as defined by rich people like us, is a very nice thing ... you are talking about the Internet, you are talking about cell phones, you are talking about computers. This doesn't affect two-thirds of the world."
-Jimmy Carter, 39th U.S. President