40 Minutes

Globalization

Many of the goods and services we depend on daily have global sources. Where once
you might speak with a customer service representative from across the country about
your computer problems, your call now would most likely be routed across the world. In
one grocery store, it can be possible to find a mixture of foods from multiple continents.
Various pieces of culture can be instantaneously broadcast around the world via the
Internet, enabling shared experiences among people of disparate geographic origins.
Globalization is generally seen as a sign of progress, but what happens when we
replace local interactions with global ones? Given the accelerating rate of globalization,
it is worth examining the implications and meaning of its presence in our lives.

Perspective One: Globalization requires a shift in the way we think about other people,
other societies, and the world. This is good, because it will push humanity towards
previously unimaginable possibilities and achievements.

Perspective Two: Removing geographic boundaries from commerce means that the
right people can be chosen for the right jobs at the right price. This efficiency leads to a
more prosperous and progressive world for everyone.

Perspective Three: The flourishing of a new, global society comes at the cost of local
cultures. Less diversity leads to deficits in empathy and creativity, two of the most
defining characteristics of humanity.

Write a unified, coherent essay in which you evaluate multiple perspectives on the
increasing presence of globalization.