Globalization and its Four Forms: Economic, Military, Environmental, and Social

Globalization and Globalism

Globalization is the increasing interconnectedness of people across countries, while globalism refers to the fluctuating level and extent of these connections. Globalism, therefore, is a key component of globalization, constantly evolving based on the specific type of linkage. The authors identify four distinct forms of globalism:

Economic Globalism

This involves international trade, the flow of jobs across borders (e.g., scientists conducting research abroad or relocated customer service centers), and international investment.

Military Globalism

Countries with limited military capabilities form alliances with stronger military powers. This often involves establishing military bases or defense agreements.

Environmental Globalism

This encompasses the spread of diseases through travel, as well as the movement of substances like radiation or ozone-depleting chemicals, all of which impact human health and well-being.

Social and Cultural Globalism

This involves the exchange of ideas, knowledge, fashion, trends, religion, and the movement of people.

Elements of Globalization

There are four key elements associated with globalization:

Stretching of Social Relations

This includes the expansion of cultural, economic, and political networks across the globe, such as trade, labor, immigration, and military connections. Time compression plays a significant role, with advancements like railroads, cars, steamships, airplanes, and the internet drastically reducing travel time and facilitating activities like remittances.

Intensification of Flows and Networks

This is evident in the rapid growth of internet bandwidth and the expansion of global companies like KLM Airlines.

Increasing Interpenetration of Practices

Multinational corporations like Nestlé, with their global workforce, and industries like airplane manufacturing, with their complex global supply chains, exemplify this element.

Emergence of Global Institutional Infrastructure

This includes advancements in communication and transportation technologies. The evolution of ports and containerization, from labor-intensive processes to automated systems using cargo ships, cranes, and other technologies, demonstrates this element.