Difference Between Globalization And 21st Century

Globalization stems from the latin word globus, meaning: the globe, the world in which we live in. Globalization is a frequently used term in our societies today. Despite the aforementioned meaning of globus, one can argue that there is no definition for the term globalization that has been collectively approved. This essay will illustrate globalization based on the following interpretation of the term: “Globalization, simply put, denotes the expanding scale, growing magnitude, speeding up and deepening impact of transcontinental flows and patterns of social interaction” (Held/McGrew 2002: 1). In keeping with this interpretation, what are the differences between the 20th century 's and 21st century 's transcontinental flows and social interactions

The focus was mainly emphasized on developing and reviving what had already been invented in the previous century. In the late 20th century, a large part of the westernized world was using the World Wide Web. Currently, it is almost impossible to find a place in this geographical zone that does not have access to the Internet. The same principle can be applied to mobile phones. In the 20th century, international calls had to be pre-ordered and were considered exclusive until late in the century. Thus it is safe to assume that the biggest trait of globalization in the 20th century is digitalization, an on-going trend of the 21st century. Today it is possible to make video calls to people on the other side of the world via the Internet, almost free of charge. The importance of physical presence has lost its true meaning and this can be observed in diplomacy, international politics and in

It can be claimed that our world contains fewer barriers than it did in the 20th century. Globalization and digitalization have made it possible to think and act beyond physical and virtual limits. Therefore, one can argue that “(g)lobalization refers to the shrinkage of distance on a large scale“ (Keohane/Nye 2000: 105). Despite the world shrinking virtually, physically we are still on the same planet. We are all connected through the increased digitalization of the most common things. This has, unfortunately, also led to a new phenomenon: the birth of international terrorism. The birth, influence and killings of terrorist groups have added new dimensions to the peacefully living societies that are subject to attack. Sadly, digitalization and globalization have facilitated the planning and execution for these terrorist groups to strike almost simultaneously, and at times in different parts of the world. Through the modern globalization a new kind of warfare has developed.

Finally, one could argue that one of the greatest difference between globalization of the 20th and 21st century is the access to inventions. While in the 20th century inventions greatly enhanced means of production, these inventions are only today (in the 21st century) vastly accessible to individuals and thus have a greater influence on overall life quality. Digitalization has speeded up the globalization and changes are