An Analysis of Globalization and Localization

When attempting to determine the exact costs and benefits of globalization and localization, one could easily find it difficult to decide which would affect each nation in a more beneficial or detrimental manner. Both concepts are useful and noble ideas. Each, if properly implemented, can help the nation grow in some way or another and provide the inhabitants with a more rewarding place to live. But if the wrong concept is implemented in the wrong country, the costs afforded by that country could far outweigh the benefits, which it would otherwise enjoy. So, determining just which concept is better for which country in the long run becomes a difficult task. Yet, in this essay, I will attempt to devise a formula, which can be implemented by those pondering this issue.

Before we dive into the "waters" of our problem, we must first examine the "waters", or meaning of our problem, which we are jumping into. As defined in the Merriam Webster Dictionary, globalize is a transitive verb meaning "to make global; especially: to make worldwide in scope or application". Rosenau describes globalization as "rendering boundaries and identity with the land less salient" So, by process of globalization, he is suggesting that the world would become homogenous with all countries sharing a number of similar characteristics, thus robbing many nations and cultures of specific heritage and traditions. The less complicated, but equally powerful example used in the first paragraph of Article 2 is the example of "a McDonald's on every corner". Though this may not seem as serious to some, it is still a form of globalization, which can slowly destroy the culture of individual nations.

Localize, on the other hand, is a transitive verb meaning to make lo...

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...not shut out the rest of the world's goods and money. It would be hard to imagine the roads of the U.S. without foreign automobiles, technology, and art. Cultures can trade goods in a way that is profitable and still protective of values and resources.

In conclusion, I cannot judge the ramifications that these examples, as well as others, will have in other cultures. Many of these examples have become just that: examples. They have become examples of what some countries can benefit from and what they can cost some countries. Even for those new to the entire subject, I believe that I have laid groundwork for an understanding of the globalization and localization, which exist in the world today, and how they affect each nation in different ways. Once we truly understand just how these forces affect each country, then I feel we can make the world better for us all.