Question 1

What is the difference between globalisation and internationalisation?

Accepted Answer

Internationalisation refers to the increasing cross-border activities between countries, such as trade and diplomacy, but it maintains national boundaries. Globalisation goes further by integrating economies and societies so that national borders become less significant, with global supply chains and transnational corporations operating across multiple countries seamlessly.

Question 2

How do TNCs contribute to globalisation?

Accepted Answer

TNCs drive globalisation by establishing production facilities and supply chains in multiple countries, often seeking lower labour costs or access to raw materials. They invest heavily in foreign countries (FDI), transfer technology and management practices, and create global brands. For example, Apple designs products in the USA, manufactures components in several Asian countries, and assembles them in China, linking economies worldwide.

Question 3

What are the negative environmental impacts of globalisation?

Accepted Answer

Globalisation increases the movement of goods across long distances, leading to high carbon emissions from shipping and aviation. It also encourages industrialisation in developing countries, often with weaker environmental regulations, causing pollution and habitat destruction. Additionally, global demand for resources like palm oil leads to deforestation in places like Indonesia and Malaysia.

Question 4

Is globalisation reversible?

Accepted Answer

While globalisation has faced setbacks, such as trade wars and the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting supply chains, it is unlikely to reverse entirely. However, there is a trend towards 'slowbalisation' or regionalisation, where countries focus more on regional trade blocs (e.g., EU, ASEAN) and reshoring critical industries. Complete deglobalisation would be extremely difficult due to deep economic interdependencies.

Question 5

How does globalisation affect cultural identity?

Accepted Answer

Globalisation can threaten local cultures by spreading dominant cultures (e.g., American fast food, Hollywood movies), leading to cultural homogenisation. However, it also allows for cultural exchange and the revival of local traditions through global platforms. Many communities adapt global influences to fit their own context (glocalisation), such as K-pop blending Western pop with Korean elements.

Question 6

What role do international organisations play in globalisation?

Accepted Answer

Organisations like the WTO, IMF, and World Bank promote globalisation by setting rules for trade, providing loans for development, and encouraging economic liberalisation. The WTO reduces trade barriers through negotiations, the IMF stabilises currencies and provides crisis loans, and the World Bank funds infrastructure projects. Critics argue they often prioritise corporate interests over local communities.

Globalisation

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