Globalization is not a trend or a fad. It is an international system which replaced the Cold War system and, like its predecessor has its own rules and logic that now influence the politics, economics and environment of virtually every country in the world. It is important to explain the meaning of The Lexus and the Olive Tree. The Lexus refers to technological advancement and growth, where the Olive Tree refers to traditional roots and culture. We see a clear message throughout the book that the ideal country should find the perfect balance between the Lexus and the Olive Tree. However, some countries have trouble finding that balance. Although I agree with Thomas Friedman's ideas throughout this great book, I find the chapter Demolition Man to have the most truth in it.
             I strongly agree with Thomas Friedman's belief that the most important filter to global capitalism is the ability to glocalize. Friedman defines healthy glocalization as, "the ability of a culture, when it encounters other strong cultures, to absorb influences that naturally fit into and can enrich that culture." It should resist those things that are truly alien and to compartmentalize those things that, while different, can nevertheless be enjoyed and celebrated as different. Judaism is a classic example of a religious culture that has absorbed influences from many different countries over generations, without ever losing its core identity. As Friedman explains in his book, "The whole purpose of glocalizing is to be able to assimilate aspects of globalization into your country and culture in a way that adds to your growth and diversity, without overwhelming it." The Jewish nation has been exposed to many foreign nations, yet only absorbed the best qualities of each nation. Greek logic was melded into biblical and rabbinic learning, while Greek celebrations of the body didn't influence the Jews.
             A country's indigenous cult...