Relating Theories of Geopolitics and Globalization

Abstract

Relating theories of Geopolitics and Globalization attempts to provide a definition of globalization. The globalization of trade and finance has evolved considerably over the past half century. But it is less impressive than most economists, judged either by the standard of 100 years ago or by the hypothetical standard of perfect international integration. However, a more nuanced understanding of the interactions between local, national, regional and global, instead of indiscriminate use of the word "globalization" is confusing. Globalization is a set of social processes that lead to the social condition of globality, thanks to the growing awareness of global connectivity. There is no consensus on the processes that constitute globalization, but the common themes include networking, the expansion of social relations and the acceleration of social exchange. The paper documents the magnitude of globalization and some of the reasons for the remaining barriers, briefly examines the implications for economic dislocation and the implications for political objectives such as equality and the environment. The conclusion is that Globalization is not the main obstacle to efforts to address societal problems.