Question

Give an analysis of the cultural and political consequences of globalization.

Answer 1

1. Cultural consequences of globalization:
   I) The cultural effect of globalization leads to the fear that this process poses a threat to cultures in the world. It does so because globalization leads to the rise of a uniform culture or what is called cultural homogenization. The popularity of a burger or blue jeans, some argue, has a lot to do with the powerful influence of the American way of life. This leads to the shrinking of the rich cultural heritage of the entire globe.
   II) But sometimes external influences simply enlarge our choices and sometimes they modify our culture without overwhelming the traditional. Blue jeans, on the other hand, can go well with a homespun khadi kurta.
   III) While cultural homogenization is an aspect of globalization, the same process also generates precisely the opposite effect. It leads to each culture becoming more different and distinctive. This phenomenon is called cultural heterogenization.
2. Political consequences of globalization:
   I) Political consequences of globalization at the most simple level, results in erosion of state capacity, i.e. the ability of the government to do what they do.
   II) All over the world, the ‘welfare state’ is now giving way to a more minimalist state that performs certain core functions, such as the maintenance of law and order and the security of its citizens.
   III) One has to keep in mind that globalization does not always reduce state capacity. The state will remain a supreme organization. Technology may rather enhance the capacity of the state.
   Thus the cultural and political consequences of globalization are both negative and positive in nature.