*The Debatewise Blog
Nisha Thanki’s view of globalisaiton
‘A spectre is haunting cities around the world: the spectre of globalisation’ (Peter Marcuse)Globalisation is, without doubt, a buzzword of our generation. It is normally described as the ‘increased interconnectedness of the world’ and the increased interdependence of countries with global institutions. Maybe this will come across a little too stereotypical for a left wing student but when I hear the word globalisation immediately I can see the fluorescent arch of McDonalds and the Starbucks logo just pop into my head.
As a student in London too, this sight is far too familiar along with a million other chains that dominate the streets of London. Culture is definitely affected by globalisation which can most simply be seen in the choice of food available to us, for example one could argue that how curry is a national dish of Britain or the kebab the national dish of Germany could be considered as a sign of globalisation.
It would be fair to say that diversity can be linked to globalisation however, I come from a small town in East Anglia called Wellingborough and for years there have been talk of redevelopment but the only notable changes have been the introduction of a Costa Coffee, Subway and Burger King. This is definitely one aspect of globalisation that I find negative as many of these big corporations are not ethical and often have poor environmental records.
So as a student how does globalisation affect me, aside from cheap fast food and overpriced coffees? I think the answer is quite simple, we are now faced with an increased interconnected world, which means we have more opportunities available to us than ever before. We have the chance to live, study and work abroad.
Globalisation means that there are more and more links with other countries whether economic, political, cultural or even educational. With Britain’s participation in the Bologna Process there are now attempts to harmonise the education systems across Europe making them more comparable and therefore it is really beneficial for students.
It also encourages students to spend a semester studying abroad, which is what I am doing now, and I have to say it has been an amazing chance to really become independent and also to meet people from all over the world. Therefore I would argue that there are at least some positive aspects of globalisation.
Comments
Why dont we end the great “illegal drug” debate with one very simple experiment. I am a single mom with very painful periods and I have no medical insurance. Yes, I will take those aweful percocets illegally so that I can function as my child never stops wanting or needing me, no matter what I am going thru. My experiment: Why dont I kick one of the many men who are so willing to crack down on illegal prescription drugs, right in the balls for 3 days every month and see how long it takes them to reach for ANY “illegal drug” to STOP THE PAIN!!! How long do you think it would be before their child is fending for themselves because you cant get up? Just my thought.