Impact of Globalisation on Social Identity and Conflict

Impact of Globalisation on societal identity element and ConflictExplore the local consequences of globalisation in relation to neighborly identity, affectionate involution and tender policy.globalization is much than a term or a word describing a authentic hold with regard to the international community of countries, it is an active living thing that is uniformly changing, mostly for the better, for to each one one day. It is the magisterial interaction between a widening sphere of countries not only regarding the conduct of business, but the daily business of living as sound. Globalization is a conglomeration of commerce, different clothes, vehicles, pharmaceutical products, foods, travel, the Internet, movies, television, music, languages, usance, laws, and McDonalds. It re drive homes how differing countries atomic number 18 change magnitude affecting and being affected by other countries as a issue of technology and commerce. least(prenominal) we forget techno logy is not just business related, it represents the developments such as the giant size Airbus A3801 which offer carry a record 840 passengers2 to its destination, and McDonalds whose golden arches flush toilet been confabn in 122 countries3. These ar prime examples of how globalization is in direct touch with individuals, at that placefore it (globalization) cannot be defined in strictly business or nation terms, it is synonymous with deuce.The predate then defines globalization as a blend of commerce and the mankind interacting as needs and circumstances arise to conduct their affairs. This can range from the need to arrive in Paris for business, or obtain service on ones Mercedes in Los Angeles. The preceding calls for items and/or passel to cross borders and thus the differing customs, cultures, politics and identities of these interacting countries comes into play. From this perspective it can logically be said that forms of globalization have been a interpreter of the human race for essentially as long as our incumbency here. black lovage the Greats invasion of Persia with just 40,000 men4, and Marco Polos collision with China are feature(a) scale examples globalization in its infancy.As mans ability to negotiate the seas then air, as thoroughly as communicate via telegraph wire, telephone and the Internet all decreased the time it took for people and goods to spend a penny their destination, the intensity of globalization increased. The cultural, salubrious-disposed, legal and other nuances that accompany contact between differing countries on any(prenominal) scale it takes, be it an invasion, a bank transfer, or a new automotive plant the parties on both sides must make adjustments. And it is these adjustments that mark globalization, as cultures that developed separately are instantly industrious in some form of interaction. It is from this context that the subject matter the local consequences of globalization in relation to complaisant identity, social conflict and social policy shall be explored.The meeting of differing cultures, regardless of the rake of contact (commerce, war, language, the Internet), specially in todays terms, is the actualization of globalization. From this perspective one can see the linage of this reality to the dawn of human time. The context of separately developing cultures coming into contact represents a change, no matter how great the initial impact (war), or benign (a letter) and it causes an accommodation by both sides. Thus, depending upon the point of mould with respect to said action(s), areas such as social identity, conflict and policy are impacted. It must be remembered that not necessarily all three aspects are present in each instance(s). As the scale, meaning number of people, increases this affects the manner in which said impact acts upon the three main categories, social identity conflict policy.These areas are not obscure concepts, they are integral par ts of a countrys culture, language, customs, and traditions as well as laws and sociological composition. And there are times, establish any on circumstances, such as war, or the natural progression of activity in a particular sphere, such as the acceptance of a product, goods or services, where the growth of such activity begins to change a countrys innate characteristics. The preceding refers to the context of social identity, conflict and policy, whereby the impact of said outside(a) influence black markets to exert changes in how the present and future generations ordain see things in terms of a change in perspective from preceding generations. The impact of the first Model T in the States is such an example. It allowed an ever so increasing segment of the population to travel further from their original locale that ever before. Today the inter extract high style system as well as those roads that traverse bordering countries permits people to make these journeys without so much as a thought with regards to globalization. While the foregoing does represent a sweeping statement, it does convey the idea which can thus be utilise to other instances (hamburgers, television shows dubbed in languages, oil tankers, etc.). The preceding view is postulated by Agdal (2004)5 in his discussion of pre and post colonialism where he stated that the European city model from its earliest days has been transmitted through and throughout the world as a import of exploration and conquest. He continues that the historical, social and cultural circumstances vary, but the foundations of the political and socio-economic constructs basically is the same through the world.Escobar (2000)6 draws a correlation between the rise of globalization and the demise of real socialism7 citing that the equation arises from the state control of socialism, versus the fluidity of the go off market system. As the majority of the worlds nations are engaged in a free market economy they are adapted to expand their markets and thus evoke increased revenues which spur growth. The foundation of a free market system is communication and negotiation, thus the left model which constrained these essentials was doomed to a self imposed isolationism in a static sized market (meaning number of countries infra control). In contrast, the free market countries could constantly enter new areas, thereby increasing commerce. This occurrence is a direct illustration of how interaction with other countries, cultures, traditions, social systems and legal systems forces consistently ongoing accommodations. In a socialist system the view is that furnishd by the state. However this view can not be imposed in trade, tariff and other international commerce regulations where the interactions with people and their cultural, handed-down and other views come into play, no matter how slightly. These outside influences slowly eat a direction at the realized socialist fabric causing change. Th e introduction of McDonalds in Russia provides such an example. Citizens at the local take aim experienced the menu and as the familiarity as well as number of outlets increased, so did the impact of this outside influence. The following will explore this phenomenon concerning globalizations impact on social identity conflict and policy.The Big and Small PictureGiven the extensive nature of the scope of globalizations reach as well as the multitude of influencing forces as work, understanding its consequences at a local level concerning social identity, conflict and policy requires understanding that the local aspect was /is initiated inwardly the broader context. Without utilizing any specific examples in exploring the foregoing it should suffice to say while certain analogies might not be germane to certain hold backs (meaning countries) the broader idea of the commonality of human interests, needs, wants and desires is relevant across all borders, abet in differing degrees of development ground upon same. This refers to examples such as France and Myanmar. Formerly known as Burma the demographic profile of the populace proves a simple example of how at one level a countrys troupe can be used to and enjoy a vehicle, internet access, travel and other items as their daily necessities, while another(prenominal) segment might have to devote almost all of their daily attention on ensuring that they will have enough to eat.The difference in interests, needs, wants and desires would be extremely similar if the entire country lived at the same standard. One group might see themselves in terms of social identity, as light with the way things are progressing which would bear a similarity to their demographic counterparts in France. This could entail the industrialization of a region or zone as part of a national plan to generate more hydro electric power or industrial capacity, as well as what, how and why they feel the way they do near varied social issues (conflict and policy). Whereas another social group might see the saying of said power station or plants as intrusions on their way of life as a result of the removal of either forest, farming, grazing or land they have come to accept as their way of live, such as the Amazon Indians. This example has no peer group in France, thus far the lack of same does not mean that their views would not similar if such a group did exist. The tilt to compartmentalize countries, and thus their inhabitants ignores the fact that depending upon the demographic, educational and other factors involved, peoples needs, wants, desires and interests remain relatively constant when things are basically the same.Social IdentityIn examining the levels of impact that globalization has on various aspects of society, which includes commerce, it must be remembered that as it is with all things, the core revolves around individuals. Therefore the following tests of identity, conflict and policy will be root in this understanding. The theory of social identity was understood by Henri Tajfel and John Turner (1979)8 who conceptualized that it consists of three ideas. Referred to as the CIC Theory it consists ofCategorizationThe almost overwhelming complexity of todays world basically forces us as individuals to cluster things, ideas and other areas into manageable groups (categories) in order to understand them.9 And this overly applies to the fact that we tend to and do categorize people with such words such as policeman, Spaniard, race driver, Protestant, and teacher as it helps us as well as others when communicating to understand. And this of course applies to areas outside of ones profession, religion, nationality and avocation. And whilst we are categorizing others we, by our preferences, ideas, beliefs and other facets are categorizing ourselves as well. In some quarters individuals define what they consider to be the norms of behavior they prefer in terms of associates, friends, ac quaintances and thus the group(s) we ourselves belong to.The intense movement of ideas, products as well as people across national borders that is globalization brings into peoples lives various degrees of external impact that subtly changes the way they perceive things as well as ourselves. The era of globalization is quickly stripping certain levels of society of their historical identity in favor of a much broader context. Demographic groups staring at the amphetamine middle class of almost all societies represent groups that are exposed on a consistent basis with the blending effects of this phenomenon. Blending, in the sense that the customs, traditions and cultural nuances that define differing countries, has become blurred within this group10.The degree of impact (in this instance blurring) many vary within these groups say between the United nation and Russia, but it does occur. Thinking in terms of a foreign vehicle as being more preferable than one made domestically, or t he selection of attire, appliances and other purchases, selections or preferences demonstrates this. The tremendous achiever of coca plant Cola, McDonalds and Disney in Russia are examples of how globalization impacts upon social identity at the local level. The consequences of such success by foreign companies, as well as ideas, is that they slowly erode traditional forms of drink, eating habits and customs as a result of the exposure. This distances segments of the population from certain aspects of their tradition, culture, customs and other unique aspects that define their heritage. namingIt is this preceding self-awareness of whom and what we believe we are that leads to our assignment of the groups that we ourselves believe we belong to. Within this concept reside two central components, social identity and face-to-face identity. Our historical recognitions as well as our acquired preferences, social circle, peers, family and friends help to define the in-groups11 we ide ntify with and helps to clarify the out groups12 which we do not identify with. These differences are present in every society and have been so since the dawn of civilization. Outbreaks between tribes are the first examples of recognition and the we versus them, I versus he (or them). Globalization has and does intrude upon as well as influence and name social identity by virtue of the fact that the commerce, communications and movement of people brings cultures into increasing contact with each other. The degree or intensity of these instances is not really important as the fact is whatever the degree and or intensity is, it is sure to increase with the passage of time.The influence and impact of globalization on social identity increases as the age of the subject group decreases. This is primarily due to older adults having established and muckle views, principles, beliefs and value system that were honed over the years. And while elements of globalization are present within th ese areas, its influence is based upon the degrees of exposure that were considerably reduced in resemblance to present levels of activity. The outside influence exerted upon successive young generations is multiplied by the globalization influences on prior generations. This compound effect serves to erode established customs, traditions, and vary legal, as well as social systems.ComparisonOur views, opinions and interactions with other individuals begin from the amalgam of our traditions, culture, upbringing and personal experiences. These aid in the formation of values and belief systems as well as other important physiological aspects.13 In a healthy connotation the preceding enables us to feel good about ourselves and thus be able to deal effectively with the world14 This self esteem15 helps to underpin irrefutable and Negative DistinctivenessIn the positive context people view their own group as better than similar groups that they see as slightly, or more inferior. The oth er side of the coin is when we besmirch differences of other groups so that the group we identify with is perceived favorably.Social CreativityThis concept within comparison is where those groups that see themselves as having high status based upon particular dimensions16 utilize these aspects as their comparative base. Individuals from a rase status rationalize their group by placing emphasis on those values they see or believe are superior as justification for their way(s) of seeing and believing in what they think.17The aforementioned examination of Social Identity serves to provide an understanding of individual perceptions as well as interpretations which globalization influences and impacts upon. The preceding is extremely important in that it impacts individuals on many personal belief levels both subtly as well as dramatically, influencing and impacting upon them personally (at a local level).Social ConflictThis basic human condition has its roots in the first individuals living in caves. They banded together as a result of family and social bonds forming a protective group for survival and physiological comfort. As these groups grew in numbers, they tested their ways of living and thinking (identification), with other groups and where the differences (in language communication, territory, hunting, etc.) were sufficient, conflict erupted. This forms the basis for this concept in that those groups as well as individuals with control and power over various materials as well as non-material resources18 tend to achievement those with the lesser of these components. The preceding is actualized either through the utilization of brute force19 and/or economics. Karl Marx (1848)20 stated that the work of social revolution is a result of class conflict with the powerful and rich exploiting the fallible and poor. And this, when applied to globalization, explains how the influence and impact of more successful societies (in terms of commerce, social systems, philosophies, etc.) is stronger and thus changes those societies. The reverse of this process, meaning the weak and poor influence and impact upon the powerful and rich has less impact, therefore change at the lower level is in their favor.Social PolicyA society needs order in which to exit and this is manifested by rules of acceptable behavior enacted into laws. These laws are control agents that can be either fair or unfair21 as well as good or bad and are consistently under scrutiny by members of society to have them changed or amended to fit the interest of their group identification thereby providing them with more power. And globalization adds to this as the net effects of commerce serve to enrich those in power who influence and enact the laws through their views to the public. The more progressive the society, the more the public helps to mold and shape the rules (laws) as the system under which the government operates has been molded to respond to public influences. This principle underscores advanced democratic societies. The clamor for public recognition has been provided by scores of internal revolutions. Fidel Castros accent to power was a result of public dissatisfaction with the old regime. And history has shown that in this instance that the lack of sufficient outside contact (globalization), has caused the populace economic repercussions. And the effects of globalization upon those who have left the borders of Cuba has been and is providing impetus to the population still there as these former citizens have seen and experienced a broader concept of life.And while this example does not provide much in terms of their ability to change or modify existing rules, Fidel Castro does make small concessions in the understanding that holding onto power does require giving some (in this case small amounts and grudgingly) back. Globalization influences social policy in both directions as the powerful and rich, with their advantages of information acce ss as well as involvement in commerce and the upper echelons of society are able to have their views and ideas reviewed as possible amendments to the law. And those at the lower rungs also seek the enactment of laws that benefit them. The effects of globalization influence both instances in that it impacts upon the way individuals see things as a result of new ideas, products, information and communication.As occupants on a sphere hurdling around a sun at 1,000 miles per hour the perception of countries, in terms of the human species, is an arcane concept. And globalization is proving this to be true. It is responsible for the demise of the former Soviet Union as that closed society had limited commerce options and this hampered their ability to complete with the financial resources of the free market system in financing its military debt. The slow build up of this debt financing squeeze caused food lines and product shortages which the system (Soviet), in and of itself could not s upply to its populace in sufficient quantities.And, it was the affects of globalization which contributed to the preceding. The education and exposure of the populace of a country means that the systems which govern that populace must also progress, change and modify itself in order to be representative of the human beings under its auspices. Failure to vex to this basic tenet was the cause of the failure of Alexanders conquests, as his succeeding generals where not able to effectively control what had been won. And this also spelled the end of the Roman Empire, Genghis Chan, as well as colonialism. The factor in all these equations is people and if their needs, wants and desires are not being met, they will eventually seek ways in which to acquire them, be it through a democratic process, or conflict. As governments have found that the turmoil created by internal as well as external conflict usually weakens their hold on power, they have, or are coming to understand that they mus t accept change as an inevitable part of the process and either be responsive to it, or precede it.The broad scale of the preceding abstract does in fact apply to the localization of the consequences of globalization upon social identity, conflict and policy as governments command over people and as history has shown, when the citizenry changes, so must the system which is supposed to be there to reflect their needs, wants and desires.BibliographyAgdal, Mohammed. 2004. Globalization, Identity Politics, and Social Conflict Contemporary Texts and Discourses. Mohammed V University, Rabat.Escobar, Arturo. 2005. Notes on Networks and Anti-Globalization Social Movements. subdivision of Anthropology, University of North Carolina.howstuffworks.com.2005. 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