Globalization can be defined as a process in which cultures, businesses and politicians function on an international

scale. This process is responsible for the rise of cultural diversity seen across the globe. Taking a look at globalization, it is clear to see that there are a series of benefits and detriments that can occur as a result of this process.

According to Forbes.com, one of the greatest benefits this process allows for is its ability to create “efficiencies and opportunities” as a consequence of open markets. It also allows for “easy credit and rising leverage” across the globe.

As a consequence of this, the answer is yes, globalization can be beneficial to society. Globalization can also contribute to a great deal of negative effects. However, the question is, what does this process truly entail? How does it affect humanity on a global level?

In the context of globalization, the process can be categorized in terms of its economic, political, and social effects.

On a societal level, globalization can be easily seen in the case of the increased popularity of Korean Pop or K-pop. Instead of having a primary presence in Korea and other countries in the continent of Asia, this genre of music has a strong presence on a global level. The recognition is so strong that some K-pop artists are being invited to perform at American award ceremonies.

One of the most recent of these ceremonies was The Grammy Awards. According to Billboard.com, it has been said that, “the nomination for BTS’ Love Yourself: Tear marks a major moment of inclusion and appreciation for South Korea’s breakout artists.” In other words, this nomination also represented one of the major effects of globalization, cultural diversity.

Political globalization can be examined in the uniformity of laws around the world. The United Nations is a prime example of this subcategory of globalization. The United Nations states that its goal is to maintain peace and security between nations. The idea is to make nations cooperate in friendly relations and syncopate nationwide actions for the benefit of all nations involved. Non-governmental organizations that vie for clean energy, green lifestyles and climate change also fall in this category.

Economic globalization has probably been around for the longest of the three categories. This is because nations around the world have been trading goods for as long as humans have had a concept of trading. China had its tea, silk and books, the Arabs have their numeric system, America had a lot of corn. With the increase in technology, economic globalization has become even more prevalent. If I want a product delivered from Japan, I can have it within two days provided I’m willing to pay the shipping price.

That being said, globalization is most often observed and criticized on an economic level.

A company that produces a certain product like that of sneakers can ship the sneakers around the world. However this may cause for a loss of jobs in a domestic situation. If people are buying the cool sneakers made in Mongolia, the cool sneakers made in America are being neglected. Even if consumption rates of cool sneakers are going up, the company in America may not be the one providing the product. This is why globalization is frowned upon by many people.

Another reason globalization is frowned upon is that if a country has an advantage in making one product they may drive up the prices. This in turn may make it hard for other countries to compete. This causes a monopoly on that product which becomes undesirable when the prices are too high. 

On the flip side, globalization can lower taxes and lower prices of products, consequently increasing competition. Competition drives down product price and creates more jobs. This causes consumer demand to rise. More jobs is advantageous for countries that may not be as wealthy as others. This is good for the business and keeps the economy flowing globally.

As observed so far throughout history globalization has a reputation for being more good than bad in a business aspect. Since the pros outweigh the cons, it is safe to say that globalization is beneficial to society.

Cultural globalization is no different. Cultural globalization allows people around the world to unite. The inclusion of various cultures into one larger culture allows for more enjoyment of simple things in life. There is more music to listen to, more media to watch and even more foods and clothing styles to try.

Globalization also opens the grounds for more conversations to happen around the world. This diminishes prejudice and therefore, racism. These are very important social issues that arise from the dehumanization of “us” vs. “them”.

All-in-all globalization has been proven to be advantageous in many respects. Businesses flourish, climate change is solved, and the economy booms.