This theme looks at the sociocultural consequences and impacts of 21st Century globalisation. We study the interactive processes and outcomes and question how inevitable these impacts actually are. We will recognise that the globalisation process is not static but is still evolving. They examine the variation in its course and its speed and how it results in different levels of involvement and acceptance. Globalisation may be resisted and rejected in some countries or sub-regions where local forces may reassert themselves as a reaction against the loss of distinctiveness and sovereignty.
Objectives
By the end of this unit you should be able to do the following;
- Describe cultural traits in terms of language, customs, beliefs, dress, images, music, food and technology.
- Examine the diffusion of cultural traits resulting from the international movement of workers, tourists and
- commodities.
- Describe the role of TNCs and the media in spreading consumer culture. Select two different branded commodities and examine the spatial and temporal pattern of adoption on a global scale.
- Examine the role of diasporas in preserving culture in one country and the adoption of minority traits by host societies.
- Examine the impact of cultural diffusion on one indigenous and remote society through the influence of international interactions.
- Examine the ways in which international interactions may result in the homogenization and dilution of culture.
- Define and exemplify the concept of cultural imperialism.
Assessment
This unit will take 6 weeks of class time and will conclude with an essay based assessment to take place in the week beginning November 9th