Globalization and Internationalization

There is a widespread perception that we live in a period of rapid but uncertain social change through something called ‘globalization’. This can be argued to be, on the whole, a positive movement, drawing together disparate parts of the world in a way not seen before. There is greater awareness of the circumstances of other countries and their citizens; greater availability of international goods and services; and arguably a reduction in international conflict, at least between the more developed nations. On the other hand, there are negative aspects too in the eyes of some. Globalization can engender feelings of powerlessness, greater concerns about competition, and fears that global culture may subsume local or national culture. Unsurprisingly, many in societies, both developed and developing, are opposed to globalization. The only consensus about globalization is ‘that it is contested’ (Scholte, 2005, p. 46).