Globalization: Definitions and Debates

Having touched upon some of the political and economic changes in the UK and the US over recent years, we now arrive at this nebulous process known as globalization. Indeed many of the structural changes discussed in the last chapter are synonymous with what we have come to know as globalization. The problem is, however, defining globalization. My experience on the topic is that if you read ten different books or articles on globalization you will encounter a number of distinct definitions. However an understanding of this process is crucial if we want to frame the context of the political changes that have happened not only in the west but around the world in recent years. More importantly it will help us to frame the changes that are likely in the coming years; changes that will affect areas as diverse as international trade, employment legislation and work conditions, public services, poverty, welfare, inequality and mental health.