In Social Problems, Coleman & Kerbo (2009) discuss ways globalization and neoliberalism have impacted global inequalities and disparities. Global inequalities are not caused by singular policies but are tremendously complex, requiring nuanced perspectives and points of view. Economists, sociologists, and scholars frequently debate whether neoliberalism and global capitalism are causing or exacerbating global inequalities, or whether the ideologies and practices of the free market may be used to promote global equality instead. Martin Hart-Landsberg (2006) and Norberg (2004) weigh in on the debate. In “Neoliberalism: Myths and Reality,” Hart-Landsberg (2006) claims that globalization and the neoliberal policies that support unbridled capitalism worldwide are harmful to the working classes—the majority of people worldwide. Essentially, Hart-Landsberg (2006) claims neoliberalism and globalization increase global inequalities. Norberg (2004), on the other hand, claims that globalization is leading to less inequality. In “Three Cheers for Global Capitalism,” Norberg (2004) claims free enterprise and deregulation lead to higher standards and quality of life for people around the globe, as well as more robust democratic institutions. Both authors make a strong case for their respective points of view.The anti-globalization perspective espoused by Hart-Landsberg (2006) rests on the assumption that “corporate profit making opportunities” have a deleterious effect on the working class (p. 1). However, Hart-Landsberg (2006) fails to provide any...
An angry tone and a lack of concessions detract from the author’s overall argument, but the author makes some sound points. The main points of the anti-globalization perspective center on the notion that almost all neoliberal policies that sustain globalization and free trade are designed to benefit corporations and centralize capital accumulation rather than distribute profits equitably to achieve goals of global equality. Capitalism and neoliberalism also undermine the power of governments to provide sustainable growth policies domestically, as governments collude with multinational corporations and international financing groups like the World Bank. Hart-Landsberg (2006) offers some specific examples from China, India, and Southeast Asia, and also provides some quantitative measures to substantiate the primary claims.
Globalization arguably began even before Marco Polo’s expeditions, possibly being traceable to Alexander the Great’s establishment of overland routes between Eastern Europe and India. The assumption that globalization equals Americanization is profoundly arrogant, and is also ignorant of the history, meaning, and implications of globalization. Globalization implies integration and interdependence of the world. Predating the United States of America, globalization nevertheless reached a peak in the 20th century, when a
They might only be more efficient when externalities are not considered, but in the real world of globalization externalities are important. Understanding what to do about these problems and how to take advantage of the opportunities presented by globalization requires a strong understanding of what globalization is, and even that remains a point of some contention. Works Cited: Higgott, R. & Reich, S. (1998) Globalisation and sites of conflict: Towards definition
Such a market should ideally be free from barriers and restrictions especially in regard to government regulation. Neo-liberalism in the words of Boulle (2009) "postulates the legitimacy of market economics, liberalized trade, privatization, deregulation and a limited state system." Therefore, as an economic approach, neo-liberalism seeks to facilitate economic development by encouraging the creation of a laissez-faire environment. It advocates for the opening up of markets to trade by
2005). A study by the Center for Economic and Policy Research reported that "77% of countries [that had received loans from the WB-IMF) for which data is available saw their per capital rate of growth fall significantly during the period 1980-2000." And by the late 1990s, the article continued, the IMF could no longer "pretend that structural adjustment had not been a massive disaster in Africa, Latin America and
Government contracting can greatly facilitate the goals of various NGOs operating in developing countries, while also making up for weak political or economic institutions. However, the “inherently political process” of contracting also presents unique problems (Zaidi, Mayhew, Cleland, et al, 2012, p. 571). Government contracting can impede social justice, though, and exacerbate the repercussions of neoliberalism. As Schuller (2009) points out, NGOs strengthen neoliberal institutions, have the potential to undermine
Urbanization in Turkey When it comes to concerns about rural areas versus that of urban areas, there are most certainly pros and cons involved. Turkey is certainly a country that could and should be included in this debate. While many people tout the improvements and advancements seen when an area becomes urbanized and more developed, it is seen by many that there are tradeoffs. One such tradeoff is the effect on
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