Globalization is a highly divisive multifaceted term with many possible interpretations that fall into the categories of economic, political, social, environmental, and cultural. It is divisive in the sense that many people feel very strongly either for or against parts of it. There are also those that deny the existence of such a concept, the so called "skeptics."
             My own personal definition of globalization differs from the one given in class. I believe that the term does not have anything to do with political, social, environmental, or cultural issues, but rather these are consequences of globalization. I believe that globalization refers specifically to the movement from isolated economies to a global economy. This is where goods and services are traded between countries and supply chains and financial markets also reach internationally. In this regard my definition is similar to the classes in that it is "integration" but solely in the sense of commerce. Undoubtedly though, globalization has a large impact on these other matters and this is where a large number of questions about a broader definition of globalization enter the arena.
             In the great globalization debate, there are not just 2 sides, but rather many points of view struggling with each other. Those not in favor of globalization have even gone so far as to instigate violence, which could be seen at recent World Trade Organization meetings, World Bank meetings, and Group of Eight meetings, among other meetings of international organizations. These opposition groups raise many questions regarding the effectiveness of globalization; questioning the wealth it creates; if it is equitable or fair; if its social impact is too costly; if it is inherently bad for the environment; and if it requires cultural changes in countries that are not yet ready to handle commerce in a global setting. Samuel P. Huntington believes that cultural difference...