Globalization Overview: "Globalization" is a term that is frequently used but seldom defined. Since World War II, why has the global economy grown so rapidly? How is it affecting the environment, local economies, and social and cultural customs throughout the world?

Questioning Free Trade: "Free Trade" proponents call for the elimination of all barriers to trade between countries (like tariffs) and for the World Trade Organization (WTO) to settle all trade disputes. The more exporting and importing the better. What are the positive and negative impacts of free trade?

Transnational Corporations: Globalization encourages the growth of transnational corporations that purchase or manufacture goods and sell them around the world. How does this affect workers, consumers, and communities?

Food and the Global Marketplace: The local grocery store is now a global marketplace. The products travel a great distance, and local growers and processors must compete with far away suppliers. What are the long-term consequences?

Globalization and the Environment: Some people argue that globalization disregards the needs of the natural systems on which it relies. Others believe that concern for the environment is not pertinent to trade. What are the implications of this latter approach?

Social Equity: Proponents say that globalization will "lift all boats." Critics argue that the gap between rich and poor is widening and the beneficiaries are the captains of industry and wealthy investors. Is social equity relevant to trade issues?

Shaping Opinion: Corporations seek to shape opinion through techniques that are invisible to most of us. What are the implications of school curriculum prepared by corporations, new reports prepared by public relations firms, and "educational" organizations set up by industry groups?

Homogenization of Cultures: Free trade, with its attendant introduction of western products and outlets, is changing local cultures throughout the world. What is gained and lost through the homogenization of cultures?

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