The Impact of Globalization On Cultural Identity
The Impact of Globalization On Cultural Identity
The Impact of Globalization On Cultural Identity
Explore how globalization has affected cultural identity, discussing the homogenization of cultures,
the preservation of traditions, and the challenges of cultural assimilation.
In a world where borders are becoming blurred and oceans seem to shrink, the phenomenon of
globalization has emerged as a transformative force shaping our interconnected planet. From the
flow of goods and services across continents to the instant exchange of ideas through digital
networks, globalization has redefined the way we live, work, and perceive the world around us.
Some argue that globalization promotes global trading and facilitate cross cultural understanding,
while others contend that the world has been shrinking since globalization started, potentially
causing homogenization of culture. I believe that globalization has impacted cultural identity
profoundly and this transformation is predominantly negative for all countries involved.
Globalization, a defining issue that arise from increased of communication and interconnectedness
worldwide. The end of the Second Word War has set off a great expansion of capitalism in 1948 with
the development of multinational companies. This wave of expansion has facilitated the global
trading market, businessmen from all over the world travel worldwide to trade goods, which resulted
in westernization on various countries. The telephone , the fax, and now computers and email, this
rapidly evolving of technology has further exacerbated the situation, exposing people to vast array of
information online. The increased cultural and technological exchange between countries have led to
homogenization of cultures, disappearing of cultures worldwide. This assimilation can be attributed
to the democratisation of English language. Multi national companies from English speaking
countries such as the United State and British expanded their businesses into developing countries,
making English the most used second language . It extensively used in many fields , including
business, education, and is also make as a requirement for a number of professions. It was deemed
as a sign professional if one speaks a fluent English, enabling them to do business with the western
countries. In the past, individuals had access to only Western newspapers and novels as their primary
resources to learn English. These newspapers covered a wide array of topics, from matters related to
monarchy to trivial subjects. It is not surprising that continuous exposure to such information could
contribute to the homogenization of cultures.
The most extreme and effective way of cultures preservation is isolate the nation, ceasing the
western influences; however, this approach would hinder the exchange of valuable knowledge, ideas,
and advancements in various fields. Nevertheless, government play a pivotal role in preserving the
traditional knowledges and customs being passed down from older generations. Notably, cultural
campaigns aimed at raising awareness and introducing people to their own cultures should not be
limited to locals alone. Extending such educational programs to a global audience would instill a
sense of pride among the local populace. Global interest and recognition can encourage locals to
take pride in and preserve their cultural heritage, traditions, and language, thus safeguarding them
from the risk of extinction. Songkran , for example , a renowned Thailand water festival that attracts
million of tourists each year. Their government are the perfect example of giving pride to the local
cultures, promoting cross cultural understanding while making it a marketing gimmick for bringing up
country’s economy.
Cultures worldwide have been disappearing for the past decades, this condition are expected to be
worsened as globalisation continues. Cultural assimilation is predominantly negative to the third
world nation, it is difficult for the developing countries to protect and build their own industries. The
assimilation of cultures impedes the availability of local dietary choices, as individuals show a
preference for Western food rather than local delicacies. As a result, these businesses face challenges
in sustaining their operations due to a decline in local support. The risk of losing local unique cultural
practices, traditions and languages. Many cultures have accumulated traditional knowledges such as
The Impact of Globalization on Cultural Identity
Explore how globalization has affected cultural identity, discussing the homogenization of cultures,
the preservation of traditions, and the challenges of cultural assimilation.
medicine, agriculture and other field would be lost together with their cultures. The consequences of
cultural assimilation will not only manifest on losing traditional knowledge, but also impede the
efforts of fostering a cultural inclusive and harmonious society.