The Negative Side of Globalization

             Globalization is the way in which the world shrinks, because of technological advancements, foreign investment, international news, and improvements in transportation. People from all over the world come together as cultures begin to mesh and combine. At a first glance, this seems to be a positive factor. In many ways it is, as is connects nations and makes humans more aware of the world around them. However, globalization is a major cause in poverty, economic downfall in certain countries – the list goes on. (Fotopoulos)

Foreign investment is a negative side to globalization. Countries such as the United States of America are prone to this practice. Greed is a huge motive that compels large corporations to invest in foreign countries. They seek only to increase their revenue. Canada, for instance, has, over the last few decades, become Americanised. Globalization is more or less large nations attempting to control other, less powerful countries. They seek to take control of that countries economy, as well as change their cultural beliefs to suit their business. This can destroy people and their trust in their beliefs.

            Globalization originated in 3000 B.C. (albeit a broad form of it). Large cities were focus around the axis of Greek culture. It was from this that the idea of a “world city” emerged. (Schifferes) Soon after, many different civilizations began to realize the profit in merchanting, where they would travel to different area to buy and sell goods. During the 19th century, industrialization allowed the cheap production of household appliances and objects. (Schifferes) This allowed for goods to be imported cheaply, and for people to buy the products that were made in other countries. Also, British imperialism is a huge contributing factor to globalization. The areas that the British conquered, such as India, became regular consumers of European goods. (Schifferes)

            This brings in the point about foreign investment. Because the British conquered these nations, they were subjected to the changing of culture by the influence of the British occupation and media. (Schifferes) Naturally, they would begin to purchase British goods, and so, support a foreign economy. That is but one example. Capitalism is the main cause behind the drive for foreign investment. The U.S. is a capitalistic country, and so, the corporations within it are intent upon finding multiple orifices to “suck” money from.