Which of the statements are TRUE about globalisation?
a. Globalisation is purely an economic phenomenon.
b. Globalisation began in 1991.
c. Globalisation is the same thing as westernisation.
d. Globalisation is a multi-dimensional phenomenon.
a. This statement is false.
Explanation
The process of globalisation has varied manifestations. It, undeniably, has a material aspect for it is associated with the flow of goods and capital. However, it also involves cultural interaction and intermingling which has increased flow of people with exchange of ideas and beliefs. It also has political implications having a fundamental bearing on the role of the sovereign states.
b. This statement is false.
Explanation
Although media references to globalisation have become common over the past two decades, the concept itself can be traced back to the earlier periods that marked the economic, trade and cultural interaction among the countries, though, relatively on a smaller scale. ,In fact, globalisation can be regarded as a new term describing the old process. The Silk Route gives us a good example of the pre-modern trade and of the cultural interaction among the distant parts of the world. The Chinese silk cargos used to travel through this route that emerged as an important link between the Europe and Asia.
c. This statement is false.
Explanation
The term globalisation and westernisation may often be used interchangeably but are not the same. Though globalisation may lead to the increased influence of the western values and culture, which presently is invariably a dominant culture, but its agents have been located far from the West. In fact, the entire process of globalisation can be traced back to the earlier times. For example, print technology, the Silk Route, the eastern influence on the western mathematics and trigonometry.
d. This statement is true.
Explanation
Globalisation is a multi-dimensional phenomenon whereby goods, capital, people, knowledge, ideas and culture readily flow across the boundaries. It has economic, material, political, social and cultural manifestations.