Globalization and Its Impact on Middle Eastern Culture

Introduction: Defining Globalization

The term globalization carries positive connotations in that it implies interaction and sharing through technology, and suggests the improvement and development of less developed countries through connections with wealthier economies. However, this is not always how the term is interpreted by every country and culture. In recent years there has been a negative reaction throughout the world to the concept of globalization, which is increasingly viewed as a means of domination and assimilation — especially with regard to cultural aspects. A more formal definition is as follows:

"Globalization can be conceived as a process (or set of processes) which embodies a transformation in the spatial organization of social relations and transactions, expressed in transcontinental or interregional flows and networks of activity, interaction and power" (Held and McGrew, et al., 1999).

In essence, globalization is characterized by a "stretching of social, political and economic activities across frontiers, regions and continents." It is also marked by the interconnection between different countries in areas such as trade, finance, migration, and culture. "Globalization, in short, can be thought of as the widening, intensifying, speeding up, and growing impact of world-wide interconnectedness."

There are two divergent positions on the benefits and dangers of globalization. On one extreme are the "hyperglobalists," who are enthusiastic about the possibility of a global economy harmoniously integrating the various regions and cultures of the world. At the other end of the scale are the skeptics, who are suspicious of the aims and goals of large-scale globalization. "Dismissing the idea of a unified global economy, the skeptical position concludes that the world is breaking up into several major economic and political blocs, within which very different forms of capitalism continue to flourish."