The Contemporary World

First Semester – A.Y. 2021 - 2022

CHAPTER 1
THE CONCEPT OF GLOBALIZATION:
IS GLOBALIZATION A PHENOMENON?
GLOBALIZATION
 Refers to a multidimensional set of social processes that create, multiply, stretch, and intensify
worldwide social interdependencies and exchanges while at the same fostering in people a growing
awareness of deepening connections between the local and the distant (McGrew, 2003).
 For Justine Rosenberg’s definition of globalization, he argues that globalization as a phenomenon gave
rise to the interconnectedness of human society that replaced the sovereign state system with multilateral
system of global governance
 From the lens of Ritzer (2008), he described this phenomenon as the spread of worldwide practices,
relations, consciousness, and organization of social life.
 Globalization, as a theory lies in the works of many 19th and 20th century scholars and intellectuals like
Karl Marx, MacKinder, and Robertson who began to introduce the term “globality”. However, it was in
the 1960’s and 1970’s when this term gained worldwide attention.
 Globalization simply puts it as a social process of reshaping and remaking the world order.
 Understanding the term globalization, requires a critical examination of its origin, development, and
usage as part of our understanding of social change within the spectrum of contemporary world.
Global Governance – having a good relationship
International Agreement – countries cannot declare a war to another countries
Philippine culture is already diverse (no authentic culture)
Multidimensional – focuses on all countries/nations
FORCES AND DRIVERS OF GLOBALIZATION
 Technology
 Economics
Interdependencies of countries
International trade (export and import of goods and services)
Philippines exports raw materials
Finish products are exported from other countries
 Politics
Global governance
Establishing a good relationship
 Culture
Parts of daily routine
 Environment
Where raw materials/natural resources are coming from
Raw materials are needed to produce products
It provides the people’s need but it suffers (industrial wastes, sanitary wastes)
 Individuals and Institutions
International institutions
QUALITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF GLOBALIZATION (Held & McGrew, 2002)
1. Creation and Multiplication of social networks and cultural activities which break the traditional
norms and practices in the political, economic, and cultural realms of most communities.
2. Expansion and Stretching of social operations and connections which is seen in the financial markets
and trading operations around the globe. (Examples: World Trade Organization, ASEAN Economic
Community, World Economic Forum and European Union)
3. Intensification and Acceleration of human activities which describes the process of world and
individual connection works. Consumer markets and consumerism continue to rule in this postmodern
aera where the farthest have the access to reach the central portion of global events.
4. Consciousness and Awareness. People, as the primary actors of globalization are the frontliners as
reflected in their experiences. The human consciousness is critical on how they impact the growing
outcomes and markets of globalization.

IS GLOBALIZATION THE SAME AS WESTERNIZATION?

 NO. The concept of Westernization is deeply rooted in the Western World where often associated with
the Western culture and values (Sairin, 2011).
 This concept is famously used in referring the western value system and it influences countries outside
its territory and sovereignty.
 The political, economic, and technological prowess of United States and European countries are best
described in the idea of Westernization.

CHAPTER 2
COMPETING THE THEORETICAL APPROACHES
THEORETICAL APPROACHES
 Realism
 Liberalism
 Idealism
REALISM
 The realist perspective explaining globalization focuses on the shifting distribution of power among
states (Walt, 1998 and Synder, 2004).
 They explained that the core idea of dominating the world through the employment of power.
 This force comes from different angles, depending on the power availability of a nation.
Realists argue that countries open their economies to the world is because of two contending reasons:
1. Financial returns of expanding markets offer new economic opportunities to the capitalist (origin
country).
2. The continued centrality of political power and military strength are obvious forces of interdependence
and realistic behavior of the more and most powerful countries.
Employment of power
 United States – has the most powerful military power
Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) – US military base in the Philippines
Japan – technological power
China – economic power
Singapore – richest Southeast Asian country (economic power)
North Korea – political power
Philippines - unknown
LIBERALISM
 Liberalism is a perspective in international relations where actors and institutions emphasize
relationships and negotiations.
 Liberalists observe the importance of interaction and communication and focus on solving problems and
conflicts affecting them.
 This idea is very evident in countries where democratic governance and institutions play major roles in
maintaining national cohesiveness in managing domestic and international affairs.
 Liberalists believe that to avoid international conflict and problems, and negotiations and dialogues are
potential mechanisms in confronting issues among parties.
Almost opposite of Realism
Actors and institutions emphasize relationships and negotiations
Importance of interaction and relationship
Three Factors that describe the Transformation of Political-Economic Structure and Development of
Global Interconnectedness:
1. Spread of Democracy and Institutions
 Democracy as a frontline of liberalism has been utilized as a sociopolitical apparatus in challenging
political actors who act beyond their power and control.
 The strong participatory presence of citizens in key issues affecting the interest and welfare of the
public could be used as a reference in balancing the interest of stakeholders.
 Liberalists see that democracies are venues of not using threat to intimidate and harm other nations.
Many liberals believe in the vital function played by the rule of law as safeguard of self-respect and
social stability.

2. Global Economic Ties

 Liberalists see economic ties and cooperation such as market integration and economic alliances are
fitting fixtures of globalization.
 The core belief of liberalism is that economic alliance and integrating the domestic economy into a
regional or economic bloc will deliver prosperity and security.
 Opening to markets to other countries is described as an act of country’s commitment to global
consciousness and moral understanding of multistate interests.
 Examples: European Union’s Eurozone and Association of Southeast Asian Nations Economic
Community (AEC)
AEC – economic alliance
Tariff – tax to pay from importing goods
Eurozone – European countries
3. International Organizations
  Liberals believe that the formation of leading regional and international organizations like global
commerce and governance are main instruments in the maintenance of peace and solidarity.
 Examples: Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and North Atlantic Treaty
Organization (NATO
OPEC – solidarity, policies and laws to follow
IDEALISM
 Idealists and constructivist hold the notion that values, and norms play pivotal roles in sustaining and
reforming the process and works of individuals, group, and nations.
 This theory emphasizes on the functions of ideologies, frameworks, systems, and identities in
understanding globalization and international order.
 Its core beliefs centers on the centrality of ideas, beliefs, emotions, and collective values that shape the
political and economic landscapes of the world
 Alexander Wendt and Hugh Ruggie are the two most prominent founders of this school of thought.
 Idealism presents the changing norms and evolutions of individuals, groups, and states with the goal of
influencing the dynamics and pattern of social structure.
Role of institutions and countries

ROLE OF IDEAS AND TECHNOLOGY IN GLOBALIZATION

 Ideas are non-material entities of culture; it embodies one’s perception of his social world or
environment. It defines on how values, norms, and beliefs are used by governments and institutions in
hold and exercising of power (Nau, 2008).
 When ideas are used well based on their intended application, development takes place. It could be
utilized for linking and transfer of knowledge in a transnational community of nations, scientific, and
social innovation, and increase in the understanding of people in their day-to-day life.
 Ideas are necessary in this particular scene because the definitions and concepts constructed are used in
interpreting how people act and behave
THREE IMPORTANT TECHNOLOGICAL TRENDS THAT MADE SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN
THE INTERACTION OF NATIONS AND PEOPLE:
1. Knowledge and technology are significant determinants of wealth and power. The success of
economy of a country requires pool of resources like ideas and technology. The technological
advancement of a nation is an identity of its economic power. 
2. The fast pace of technological change. From industrialization to modernization, technology has taken a
significant role in business, government, and individuals.
3. Dispersed knowledge and technology. The increasing trends in communication revolution make it
more possible to move data and ideas from people to people and country to country at faster and more
convenient way.
 Innovation as a product of technological advancement have rendered national borders irrelevant in
international system.
INSTITUTIONS AND GLOBALIZATION
 Institutions consist norms, set of activities, and regulate structures that provide meaning and
stability to the social behavior of a group (Peter, 2012).
Examples of Institutions
International Monetary Fund (IMF)
World Trade Organization (WTO)
 Meyer and Rowan (1977) describe the formation of institution as a symbolic manifestation on the
needs of society. The actions and behavior of the group members can change and alter the movement
of community and its people
 A different view explained by Giddens (1979), states that institutions will not be recognized as
institutions if they do not shape the behavior of individuals
 Global governance is directed by two important institutions: political and economic institutions.
The operation of the political and economic life of globalization depends on how plans are
implemented and how accountable these institutions are in their actions.
 International institutions are classified intergovernmental organizations that are formed by national
governments. These are international formal organizations that set rules and with the purpose of
regulating the flow of communication and movement of resources.
EXAMPLE
 The International Monetary Fund (IMF) performs globally and countries around the world depend on the
common rules set by the body. Like IMF, World Trade Organization (WTO) is an international
institution that plays key role in the management of global trade. Its member-economies are bound to
adhere and behave in accordance to its guidelines in the conduct of international trade.

CHAPTER 3
THE PRACTICE OF GLOBALIZATION
GLOBALIZATION IN HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES
 There are key events and developments in the history of globalization from the time it was initially
observed and describe as a phenomenon up to the current era of advancement and modernization.
 The useful checklist training the phases of globalization was drawn by Holton (1998), Sholte (2001),
and Lawson (2012).

First Phase Second Phase Third Phase

(Mid 18th Century – 1870s) (1920s – 1960s) (1960s – Present)

Development of international Establishment of League of Establishment of global

networks Nations (United Nations today) communication

Beginning of international fairs Global effect of Cold War Increasing power and influence of
international financial institutions

International relations through Rise of Third World Countries in Rapid rise of US and expansion of
treaties and agreements in Europe international arena western investments and
 multinational firms

Establishment of International Increased attention to End of Cold War

Committee of the Red Cross in humanitarian works and
1863 development aid

Significant development in Introduction of global icons and Increase in social movement and
communication and transportation American consumerism global civil society

Development of international Introduction of World Wide Web

competitions and continuous influence of
telecommunications

First World War Rise of global attention to

environmental concern and snit-
globalization campaign

PHASES OF GLOBALIZATION
 For a better grasp on the historical developments of globalization, Thomas Friedman described the
phases of globalization into three periods
Globalization 1.0 Globalization 2.0 Globalization 3.0
(1492 – 1800) (1800 – 1950) (1950 – 2000)
(focused on Western
Countries)
Period of Mercantilism End of World War II Period of Technology and Internet
(commerce, business) (worldwide web)

Age of Industrialization (rise of Age of Pax Brittanica Age of Information

British Economy)

Inventions: Formation of Market Integration Intensification of trade worldwide

 Steam engine and Institutionalizations of major and development of Multinational
 Printing press economic activities in global corporations
 Railway system market

Development of Social Systems New players and prominent

and Institutions: economic actors:
 Government  China
 Education  ASEAN
 Exchange of goods within  European Union
the region  Japan
 South Korea
THREE DIMENSIONS OF GLOBALIZATION
 Anthony Giddens described the globalization as intensification of worldwide social relations. The global
economic activity is the most obvious face of this phenomenon where economic activities have immense
effect to other global operations such as governments, education, and technology.
World Capitalist Economy  Primary force of globalization.
 Capitalists states are the main engines of
global production and distribution of goods
and services.
 Capitalists engage in transnational operation
maintaining pool of resources such as labor
and capital.
 Multinational corporations are very powerful
in controlling domestic and foreign market.

Nation-state System  Sovereignty of states has been emphasized as

a primary part of independence and
autonomy.
 The concept of sovereignty in a globalized
world is understood as the best form of
asserting the existence and operation of a state
in order to be recognized.
 It has been used as a major political unit in
international relations.
 Nation-states have the right to make their own
collective objectives.
International relation and politics

World Military  Strengthening military power is the priority of

the first world countries as well as the
developing and third world countries.
 Budget allotted by governments to defense
and military surged hundred folds with the
aim of delivering world-class defense
operation and services to its people.
 US maintains the rank as the world’s most
powerful military in terms of military
spending (SIPRI, 2017).

THREE WORLDS AND WORLD ORDER

 The concept of First World, Second World, and Third World was a construct of the Cold War era.
 There were number of interpretations on the origin of Cold War.
 First, the conflict was cause by aggressive behavior and domestic policies of Soviet Union prompting
other countries especially the US to react.
  Second, the cold war was a result of the US economic system of expansionist-capitalism.
 Third, the war was a consequence of security response from the two countries on the power vacuum and
threat of central Europe.

  First World Second World Third World

During Cold War Unites States Soviet Union Neutral and non-aligned
Countries
United Kingdom China
Japan Estonia
Western European Countries Lithuania
  Half of Germany
Vietnam
North Korea
Cuba
Description Powerful economies having The idea of world Countries are described as
stable governments, robust order is associated less developed and
financial markets, and with role of political developing economy or
advanced and modern and military power global south.
infrastructures, low poverty, during Cold War.
 
and high standard of living
The communist
Most of the countries have
countries of the
experience colonialism from
Second World are
Western World.
found to be trapped
between poverty and
prosperity.

Cold War – war between the United States and Soviet Union (different European countries)
Developed and Developing countries are the new concepts of these three world orders.
 The Contemporary World
First Semester – A.Y. 2021 - 2022

CHAPTER 4
GLOBAL ECONOMY
Economic Systems
• The global economy of most countries is classified into three categories: market, command, and mixed
economies.
• In countries where democracy prevails, its economic system is usually under freedom, choice, and
decisions of its citizens.
MARKET  Decision making of private individuals Hongkong
ECONOMY New Zealand
 Economy under the will and interest of the individuals. Australia
 Economic freedom to purchase and sell products, services, and Switzerland
properties.
 This condition is not planned by a single person or group that
has the ability to manipulate or direct the economy solely.
 It promotes competition among business and firms.
COMMAND  A central economic planning body handles the entire decision North Korea
ECONOMY making. Cuba
Russia
 The quality and quantity of goods and services produced is China
based on the decision of the government.
 Production quantity is dictated, consumer behavior is directed,
and market operation is controlled by a single authority.
 Its objective is to mobilize resources for the common good of
the public and for the interest of the nation.
 Private individuals have no say in the economic operation.
MIXED  Market-driven economies Philippines
ECONOMY United States
 Combination of market and command economies. United
 Some sectors are under the directions of the private individuals Kingdom
while other aspects of the economy are left within the guidance France
of the government.
 State can take over the ownership and operation of a private
company for the purpose of maintaining the interest of the
nation.
 • While countries that are under the control of a single political party and authority, its system could be
under the practice of command economy.
International Trade
• The process and the system when goods, commodities, services cross national economy, and boundaries
in exchange for money or goods of another country (Balaam and Veseth, 2008).
• Global trade has grown dramatically since the post-cold war era because of increasing demand of goods
and services and countries.
• This global norm reflects growing practice of internationalizing and globalizing local products and
services.
Trade Theories
1. Descriptive Theory – it deals with the natural order and the movement of trade. It describes the pattern
of trade under the idea of laissez faire, a French term which means “leave alone”.
It refers to the notion that individuals are best economic agents to solve the problems
through invisible hand rather than government policies.
It also addresses the questions which product to trade, how much product to offer and
produce, and which country to trade in the absence of government restrictions.
2. Prescriptive Theory - it prescribes whether government, an important economic institution, should
interfere and restrict with the movement of goods and services.
This theory views government to have participation in deciding which countries to alter
the amount, composition, and direction of goods.
Three Perspectives on International Trade
1. Economic Liberals
For David Ricardo, his influential work, Law of Comparative Advantage explains that
free trade efficiency is attainable if two countries can produce more goods and trade products separately. The
advantage of this theory in international trade is deriving principle of specialization and division of labor of
Adam Smith (Nau, 2009). Countries have different resources and talents; they are better in performing in that
economic activity than other economic activities.
Economic liberals explain the importance of free trade and the role of individual’s
preference in choosing economic activity. It includes making decision, and choices on comparing the costs of
products to be produced and traded, the availability of the product, and the efficiency of producing and buying
products.
2. Mercantilists
Mercantilism is an economic theory emerged from about 1500-1800. This period was
the emerging eras of nation-states and the formation of more central governments. This system flourished due to
the following reasons:
a. Higher export than import. Governments imposed restrictions and policies requiring economy ant its
market to produce higher export that products and services purchased outside the country or import.
Countries used this mechanism to support their trade objectives and strengthen their colonial rule and
possessions.
 b. Export less high valued product and import less high valued product. It prevented and monopolized the
production and manufacturing operation of the colonies.
c. The benefits of colonial powers. Mercantilism is adopted to increase and sustain the colonial power and
its authority to direct and control the economic activity of the colony.
3. Structuralists
 The Modern World System (MWS) theory developed by Immanuel Wallerstein, explain the contact of
economies between core, semi-peripheral, and peripheral countries in the world.
 The core states have the absolute advantage over the other through unequal exchange and extraction of
raw materials from the periphery and semi-periphery.
 This system as part on the structure of the global capitalism, involves exploitation, and transformation in
some ways.
Transnational Corporations
• The role of Multinational Corporation (MNCs) in the 21st is distinct and interesting to investigate. The
movement of ideas, capital, investment, technology, and people are affected by the operations of MCNs.
• As the global economy is becoming complex and competitive, MCNs continue to offer innovations and
new product and services. For several years, the term MCNs was used to refer to a firm operating in
different countries around the world. Because of the magnitude of global production and networks, the
term transnational corporation (TNC) became the more acceptable name.
• This refers to business organizations and firms that compete in regional or global markets. It operates in
countries and makes investments in research, technology, facilities, distribution, and production.
• TNC can control and monopolize the global market especially if it has huge pool of resources making it
one of the most powerful economic actors in the world.
• The number of TNCs from north and west has business operations in the south where cheap labor and
raw material are available.
• TNCs are very powerful economic institutions because of their global influence in investment and
network distribution.
International Economic Institutions and Market Integration
• The formation of economic integration is designed to address and enhance the level of competitiveness
of member economies in trade.
• Free trade is the primary consideration of regional economic integrations.
• Free Trade Area (FTA) is a trading bloc which involves the reduction of internal tariffs to zero of
member economies while retaining different external tariffs. This policy aims to promote free flow of
goods and services as well as to increase the volume of trade within the region.
• Unfair Trade is the conduct of trade by a business fir or government that violates and breaks the
international trade agreements that are unjustifiable and discriminatory.
• Examples of common trade practices are issues relating to price, labor, wages, health, and environmental
concerns that failed to meet the regulatory standards of the body.
World Trade Organization (WTO)
• In 1995, General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) of the American government was replaced
and succeeded by WTO with 151 members as of 2008 and accounts for 90% of the world’s trade. It is
based in Geneva, Switzerland and leads by a director general selected by consensus among its members.
• Primarily, WTO has the following main functions:
a. Implementation of the latest GATT agreements
b. A venue for trade negotiations
c. A dispute settlement body responsible for resolving trade problems
d. Review and assess national and international trade laws and policies
e. Assist members and developing economies by providing technical assistance and training programs
World Bank
• Officially called the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), or World Bank is
an international agency with 189 member-countries operating in 130 countries worldwide.
• Formed by Bretton Woods agreement in 1944 to finance the reconstruction of war-torn countries
brought by the devastation of World War II.
• World Bank is composed of four associated agencies:
a. International Development Association (IDA). This agency focuses on poor and third world economies
in the world by providing financial assistance and load program.
b. International Finance Corporation (IFC).
c. Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA).
d. International Settlement Centre of Investment Disputes (ISCID).
International Monetary Fund (IMF)
• IMF was created as the flagship institution of Bretton Woods agreement with 189-member countries.
• IMF is responsible in supervising exchange rate system, providing loan programs to economies
experiencing balancing payments adjustments, and review domestic economic policies.
• Its mandated to ensure the stability of the international monetary system including exchange rates and
international payments.
• It reflects on the amount owed by the country from another country as well as indicates the economic
operation like what it produces, consumes, and buys with its money
European Union
• European Union (EU) is a political economic regional organization of 28 member-economies in Europe.
• Founded in 1985, European Economic Country (EEC) was formed by six countries: Belgium, Germany,
France, Italy, Luxembourg, and Netherlands.
• Since then, other European countries joined the regional bloc making it as Europe’s most influential and
powerful body.
• EU is guided by its core values, considered as integral part in the way of life of its citizens.
 • It believes on the following value orientation: (1) Human dignity, (2) freedom, (3) democracy, (4)
equality, (5) rule of law, and (6) human rights.
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
• The Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) was founded on August 1967 in Bangkok
Thailand with Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand as its founding fathers.
• Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Cambodia joined the organization making up today the 10
member-countries.
• The ASEAN Political-Security Community, ASEAN Economic Community, and ASEAN Socio-
Cultural Community are the three main pillars of ASEAN.
• As stated in the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in South East Asia (TAC) of 2976. The ASEAN
Community functions under its six fundamental principles (ASEAN.org).
a. Mutual respect for the independence, sovereignty, equality, territorial integrity, and national identity of
all nations;
b. The right of every State to lead its national existence free from external interference, subversion or
coercion;
c. Non-interference in the internal affairs of one another;
d. Settlement of differences or disputes by peaceful manner;
e. Renunciation of the threat or use of force; and
f. Effective cooperation among themselves

CHAPTER 5
GLOBAL GOVERNANCE
Global Government and Governance
• Global government is a response on the actions of various stakeholders on finding out pressing global
problems like climate change and issues on peace and security.
• The world has no global government and global authority.
• There are political and economic bodies operating worldwide but no single organization possesses a
global authority in enforcing and compelling others to follow.
• Global governance refers to domestic institutions and governments on how large-scale problems and
public policy issues are being solved at a global level.
• It involves a range of actors including states, national and regional bodies that have the willingness and
commitment to confront a specific problem (WHO, 2015).
• It involves management, authority, cooperation, and mechanisms that are aimed to attain certain goals.
• This international process is bounded by consensus and agreements where members are expected to
perform based on the guidelines and policies
Three Existing Gaps and Issues in Global Governance
1. Jurisdiction Gap
  The lack of global governance in taking actions to problems affecting key sectors arises from the
absence of authority. This involves the need to create power and jurisdiction to governments and
international organizations that have the commitment in confronting issues like unemployment,
human rights, peace, and crimes.
2. Incentive Gap
 Global governance is formed with the participation of countries that have the interest to deal
problem affecting their sovereignty. It is an issue between the rich and poor countries of the world
because of uneven distribution of authority and control over decisions and policies.  
3. Participation Gap
 Member-states sometimes disagree on issues that are harmful to their interests. They do not involve
in decisions that are crucial to the economic and political welfare of their sovereignty.
Political Systems
 Political System means the system, or the form of practice employed by the state.
 Udayanskar (2012) identified two dimensions of political system.
 First, a country emphasizes the importance of individualism as opposed to collectivism.
 Second, a system in which a country is either democratic or totalitarian in its form of government.
INDIVIUALISM
 it is a political system that values the significance of individuals over collective goals.
 freedom of the people is the primary consideration.
 government values choices and preferences of its people at a very personal level.
 it is built in two elements: individual freedom and expression are important in the sense that individuals
just like state have sovereignty; and the pursuit of economic interest among individuals.
COLLECTIVISM
 is a philosophy that stresses the importance of the collective goals over individual freedom and interests.
 the state, as the primary economic manager views collective action as the best strategy in establishing
the welfare and interest of the nation.
 According to Plato, social stratification must be built in order for the society and the entire economy and
the government be managed properly and orderly.
DEMOCRACY
 Democratic institutions and governance focus on the role individuals in political decision making.
 the practice of direct participation in modern societies involves representation, where individuals
periodically elect someone who has the ability to represent them in the government.
 in a representative democracy, competitive elections occur where candidates freely compete for votes
through conduct of fair and honest election.
 elected officials are accountable for their actions in the government and operation of the state.
  constitutional laws are provided to safeguard the welfare and interest of the people.

TOTALITARIANISM
 is built on the idea that society and citizens have no right and freedom of expression.
 totalitarian countries do not recognize the conduct of fair and honest election, the presence of media, and
civil liberties.
 decision making of the states is exclusive only on a single political party if not a ruler who has full
control in the political, economic, and social affairs if its government.
Political Layers and Geopolitics
 States in contemporary world are hungry for power.
 Power is the ultimate goal to contain and control other states and nations that do not enjoy much
power are considered as powerless states in international arena.
 Realists define power as capabilities of a country to control other countries like population of its
people, resources, territory, economic, and military strengths (Chomsky, 2006; Nau, 2008).
 In international relations, geopolitics is defined as a focus and concentration of a country's location,
environment, and geography as the basis of its national interests (Nau, 2008).
 United States and China have ideal geography because of its vast land and territory, Israel on the
other hand, has struggles when it comes to defending the territory because it is surrounded by Islam
majority countries.
 India enjoys its huge territory but have some challenges when it comes to territorial security and
military relationships with neighboring countries Pakistan and China
Unilateralism
 The economic growth experienced by China and other emerging economies in the world are
dependent on the American market.
 On the political angle, American military power is considered as the most highly valued military
force in the world with billions of dollars annually spent by the government. Its military presence in
some countries in Asia and Pacific, Middle East and Africa, Europe and South America is a
remarkable manifestation of its control in global defense operation.
 However, the global stability of power enjoyed by the Americans can only be sustained if it will
employ the liberal values of freedom, democracy, and human rights (Balaam, and Veseth, 2008).
Multilateralism
 The idea of multilateralism includes three powers in international system.
1. Bipolar - it happens if there are only two great powers dominating the distribution of power. The Cold
War era is fitting example of bipolarity, the global power was highly contested between US and USSR.
2. Tri-polar or tri-polarity - exists if there are only three states dominating the distribution if global
order. United States, Japan, and Europe were considered as potential powers during the Second World
War. They controlled some areas under the respective military instruments and interests. In the area
global economic power, Japan, China, and United States are the most favored nations identified by
scholars as the three leading economic giants of modern time.
 3. Multipolar or multi-polarity - is situation when more states are involved in the distribution of global
power. This geological condition is described as an alignment if the powerful and emerging powers in
the world. The current situation of the globe could be described as Multipolar because of state actors
joining the prestige of superpowers. Europe, China, Japan, Russia, United States, and major alliances are
key players in the distribution of power.
Isolationism
 Isolationists believe that major powers and states exclude the use of force and military in the
international system. War and attacking other nations are unethically acceptable in the international
political economy. It is already enshrined in the international law. Realist-isolationist stresses that
United States must disengage itself using military force over other military interests.
Global Political Institutions
United Nations
• The United Nations or UN is an international organization established in 1945 with the League of
Nations as its original body. Currently, the organization has 193-memberr states performing various
capacities and divisions.
• As the world's most powerful binding political organization, UN can act on the issues confronting
humanity in the 21st century such as peace and security, climate change, sustainable development,
human rights, disarmament, terrorism, humanitarian and health emergencies, gender equality,
governance, food production, and more.
• UN operates worldwide in providing aids and support services to global problems in countries where it
is needed.
Organs of United Nations
1. General Assembly- this is UNs main deliberative and decision-making body represented by all its 193
members. The assembly holds general debate from September - December in its headquarters in New
York. Two thirds of vote are required to decide range of issues like peace and security, budget, and
admission if new members to the organization.
2. Security Council - it is responsible in the maintenance of peace and security. it has the power to impose
sanctions or punish members or other bodies for the purpose of restoring international peace and
security.
3. Economic and Social Council - commonly called as ECOSOC. its main function is to coordinate,
review, and recommend policies relating to economic, social and environmental issues. It serves as the
main agency of UN in monitoring and evaluating key results in sustainable development.
4. International Court of Justice - ICJ is the principal body or court of UN. Its role includes setting legal
disputes among concerned states and provides opinions on legal matters. This is the only UN organ that
operates outside United States with headquarters in the Peace Palace, Netherlands.
5. The Secretariat - it is headed by the UN Secretary - General who sits as its Chief Administrative
Officer at the appointment of the secretary general is done through the recommendation of the Security
Council for a five-year term. this organ is responsible for the day-to-day work and operation of the UN
including its peacekeeping mission and thousands of international staff stationed in different countries.
6. Trusteeship Council
North Atlantic Treaty Organization
 • NATO was formed initially as a political association, and not a military alliance. Realists argue that
during its proposal in 1949, the idea of collective security arrangement was the main feature of NATO.
• Its purpose was not directed against the threat of Soviet Union but to strengthen political commitment of
governments in Western Europe. However, liberalists point out the belief that NATO was established to
back up and save the economic and political problems of Europe from the damages of war.
• The economic alliances of Europe's powerful countries transformed the region as a major hub in
industrialization. Its development transformed NATO as a conventional military alliance and protected
Europe from the threat of Soviet Union.
Discussion from the 3 videos
First Video
United States of America – country who wants to withdraw
Chinese currency – not convertible as the US’ dollars
Which countries are most economically vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19?
 Countries that have densely packed industries
 Countries that have no capacity to borrow
 Countries that rely on tourism
Is globalization a liability?
 No. It helps solve the problem in some aspects of the pandemic
Second Video
Digital Economy – all jobs and works are done at home these days
How to fix the economy?
a. Spend first, save later
b. Embrace change
c. Build a safety net
d. Avoid turning inward
Third Video
Slowbalization – slowing down of the globalization
 The Contemporary World
First Semester – A.Y. 2021 - 2022

CHAPTER 6
GLOBAL CIVIL SOCIETY AND
NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION
Global Civil Society (GCS)
• The formation of UN was pivotal in the recognition of civil society organizations and NGOs.
• This era was marked by participation of NGOs in the decision making of the body.
• GCS is a global and international network of NGOs with the purpose of influencing governments and
organizations in various issues and concerns. It is usually identified as organized attempts to create and
resists change.
• NGOs have strong influences and role in globalization. Their operations are very evident across
disciplines and industries such as commerce and trade, media and press, human rights, environmental
groups, migration and labor.
• Lobbying in governments, participating in public protest, and maintaining information campaign are
some known styles of articulating their interests and expressing their stand on a particular issue.
Characteristics of NGOs
1. An NGO must be entirely independent from the control of any government. It should have its own
authority and jurisdiction over its operation and decisions. They design their own programs and activities and
maintain their networks without interference from the government.
2. NGOs are not considered as political party. They have participation in political issues like human rights
and environmental pollution but they are not classified as an organization that is part of the bureaucratic
operation of the state.
3. NGOs perform their tasks not because of generating income or profit. They are described as non-profit
and not-for-profit organization or entity. The existence and operating costs of NGOs rely on the members'
contribution and practice of sponsorship from the private sector and entities that have interest in their causes.
Roles of Civil Society Organizations
The World Economic Forum (WFC) outlined the following roles of NGOs and CSOs:
1. Watchdog
CSOs monitor the behavior of institutions in the promotion of transparency and accountability.
2. Advocate
They initiate programs that could raise public awareness of issues and challenges and advocating for
change.
3. Service Provider
 These organizations are active in delivering services to meet societal needs including food and security,
health and education as well as preparedness and disaster management.
4. Expert
They bring unique knowledge and experience to evaluate policy and strategy, and identify solutions.
5. Capacity Builder
Civil society provides services providing relevant training, education and capacity building to
communities.
6. Incubator
CSOs act as an armory in developing solutions that requires long playback period.
7. Representative
They give power in emphasizing rights of the marginalized and voices of under - represented.
8. Citizenship Champion
CSOs are known in encouraging citizen engagement and championing the rights of the minority.
9. Solidarity Supporter
They promote the ethical, just, and humane practices as part of promoting universal values geared
towards sustainability and balanced life of the many.
10. Definer of Standards
CSOs create and frame norms that shape and make activities of the people and societies.
Transnational Nongovernmental Organizations (TNGOs)
• TNGOs are international not-for-profit organizations that are independent and are not controlled by
governments.
• TNGOs operate as an extension of the private life of the state transcending from domestic to
international affairs.
• TNGOs are seen very active in the domestic affairs in countries under democracy. Democratic states do
not only recognize the operation of NGOs but promote as well its involvement in the acceleration and
delivery of its services.
Economic Nongovernmental Organizations
• Multinational Corporations (MNCs) and Transnational Corporations (TNCs) are modern versions if
global commercial enterprises.
• Example:
Powerful organizations and firms like Google, Toyota, ExxonMobil, Walmart, and Samsung
continuously generating profit at a large scale.
Environmental Nongovernmental Organizations
• Environmental NGOs are considered as vanguard against the abuses of capitalists and organizations that
negatively affect the environment.
 • NGOs usually lobby to influence decision makers, international organizations and governments.
• They undertake serious actions like research fundraising, publicity and challenging policies and
legislatures that are detrimental to the ecology and environment
Example:
• Greenpeace and World Wildlife Fund (WWF) are two most prominent environmental NGOs. Activities
and engagements of these organizations are described as assertive and influential. They operate in
almost all countries especially those that have environmental concerns.
• Greenpeace is known for its fearless stand and expression on the neglect of the institutions in damaging
oceans, shipments of toxic products, and forest degradation in areas like Brazil.
• WWF on one hand is the world's largest multinational conservation organization.
Law and Human Rights Nongovernmental Organizations
• The adoption of UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 which centers on the promotion of
political participation and freedom, entitlements and access to adequate food, shelter, clothing, and
health care provided a more pronounced obligation of the state to its citizens.
• This adoption was followed by the resurgence of other bodies and conventions such as women's and
children's rights, discrimination and abuse.
• Under the UNs management, the organization has the right to act issues concerning human rights
violation.
Example:
• Amnesty International (AI) is one of the world's most famous and active human rights NGOs
operating in different countries worldwide.
• AI maintains its global prestige and integrity of not accepting money and donations from governments
and political organizations/parties.
• It is known in focusing advocacies and causes on judicial and justice system reform, abolition of death
penalty, protecting the rights of migrants and refugees as well as protection to human rights defenders,
and promoting the rights of marginalized communities and indigenous peoples.
 The Contemporary World
First Semester – A.Y. 2021 - 2022

CHAPTER 7
GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT AND DIVIDE
Development
• The term development us described as a process, system, procedure. It is a state or condition of changing
and enhancing something.
• Oxford defines development as "a process and an event constituting a new stage in a changing situation.
• This process requires a number of factors and consideration in developing a part of its system or
constituent elements
• Development is a complex and multidimensional concept occurring in an uncertain condition.
• Bellù (2011) stresses that the development of the other parts of the system could be detrimental to the
development of the other thus creating structural and systemic conflicts.
• Critics of global development assert that countries do not equally get the gains of globalization.
• Countries that lack resources and infrastructures are at the bottom part of the phenomenon where the
benefits are unequally distributed worldwide. Disparity is very evident between rich and poor countries.
• CSOs describe this situation as maldevelopment, a condition where developing and less developed
countries suffer on the downside effects of development and changes.
Four Dimensions of Development
• The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the UN has enumerated the four dimensions and
prevailing paradigms of development.
1. Economic Development
2. Human Development
3. Sustainable Development
4. Territorial Development
Economic Development
• It is focused on the qualitative aspect of change that sometimes people failed to determine like the
increased quality of life, social improvements and innovations.
• Sen (1999) defined it as "the expansion of capacities that contribute to the advancement of society
through the realization if individuals', firms', and communities' potential"
• Economic development as a transformation requires altering some fundamental economic structures,
increasing the occupational capacities of the population, empowering the mobility of key economic
agents
Human Development
• UN's Three Dimensions of Human Development:
1. Long and healthy life
2. Knowledge
3. Decent standard of living
• Indicators:
1. Life expectancy at birth
2. Expected and mean years of schooling
3. Gross National Income (GNI)
 Human Development Index (HDI) was created to emphasize that economic growth should be used as
criterion in assessing the development of a particular country but the development of the people and
their capabilities.
 The report was a response to the growing disparity between the poor and rich where poverty has become
a major challenge to governments as part of its national policy making.
Sustainable Development
• It is the "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs." (Bruntland Commission)
• Development is a need, and it must be observed and practiced based on the necessity of man and his
environment.
• However, development efforts and practices must be in accordance with the harmony of nature without
compromising the ecological condition and future generation.
Six different definitions of sustainable development (Streeten, 1991 and Goutlet 2000)
1. The maintenance and replacement of capital assets.
2. Maintaining the environmental conditions for the benefit of the all.
3. Resiliency or the ability to adjust and cope with the changes and crises.
4. The avoidance of internal and external debts in the future.
5. Fiscal and political sustainability.
6. The ability to hand over the programs and projects to the decision and control of the citizens.
Territorial Development
• It focuses on the interrelationships of human activities between rural and urban areas (Bellù, 2011)
• Social activities of man part of territorial development include production, distribution, and consumption
of goods and services, the balance and quality features of its norms and practices that support the
operation of man's social affairs.
• Territorial development is composed of clusters that linked activities and structures.
 • Critical to this development is how clusters and agencies respond to the challenges of resource scarcity
which are then interlinked to problems like food security, space availability, and overcrowding.
• The development process if this dimension operates on both national and transnational scope.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• SDGs was established as part on the success of the Millennium Development Goals of 2015.
• In the next 15 years, member-countries of UN, rich and poor, developed or developing are expected to
mobilize all efforts to end the global problem of poverty, solve inequality, and address impacts if climate
change.
• Parties involved in the global war on poverty believe that a more active participation and higher level of
commitments are necessary to materialize SDGs by 2030.
• This global partnership among states is not binding however, national governments have the ownership
and authority to make and implement national policies that are in line with the objectives of SDGs.
• These policies are of high quality and have accessibility to public and other concerned bodies as a
mechanism in delivering and relevant works and outputs.
17 Sustainable Development Goals
GOAL 1: No Poverty. End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
GOAL 2: Zero Hunger. End hunger, achieve food security, and improved nutrition and promote sustainable
agriculture.
GOAL 3: Good Health and Well-being. Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
GOAL 4: Quality Education. Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education
GOAL 5: Gender Equality. Achieve gender equality and empower all women.
GOAL 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and
sanitation for all.
GOAL 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern
energy for all.
GOAL 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic
growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.
GOAL 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and
sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.
GOAL 10: Reduced Inequality. Reduce inequality within and among countries.
GOAL 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient,
and sustainable.
GOAL 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Ensure sustainable consumption and production
patterns.
GOAL 13: Climate Action. Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
GOAL 14: Life Below Water. Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for
sustainable development.
GOAL 15: Life on Land. Protect, restore, and promote, sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainable
manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.
GOAL 16: Peace and Justice Strong Institutions. Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable
development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all
levels.
GOAL 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal. Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the
Global Partnership for Sustainable Development.
Global South
• South has a geographical connotation described as largely equivalent, but not identical with Third World
(Pagel, Ranke, et al 2014).
• However, the term south does not refer to countries outside United States and Europe, Australia and
New Zealand do not belong the "South".
• It also refers to countries that are excluded if not deprived from socioeconomic prominence like Africa,
Middle East, South America, South Asia and countries within Pacific.
• The inequalities and global divide between rich and poor countries part of globalization and
territorializing is also a part on the reality of global south (Lopez, 2007).
• The idea of global south is a contemporary issue in socioeconomic and political divide. Countries like
United States, Canada, outmost and western part of Europe, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand are giant
economies parts of the global north.
• These countries are described as highly industrialized, developed, and most advanced economies in the
world. It rests on the fact that the entire world's industrially developed countries lie to the north of its
developing countries
• Asian countries are fond to be a combination of emerging and developing economies except for
Singapore. Domestic and regional problems like unstable governments, rule of law ad environmental
pollution are continuously at the frontline of concerns in the region.
• Central Asia on the other hand consists of countries that have experienced transitioning governments.
• West Asian region has its unique social struggle. The region is confined in a costly conflict involving
territorial insecurity, peace and order, and competing extreme ideological clashes. Thought the region is
an oil-rich country but regional issue are barriers in the development process of West Asia.
• Natural disaster and the absence of sufficient investment as major source of the economy, make
countries in the Pacific Islands a victims of slow growth. Its economies are dependent with the influx of
business and commercial activities of nearby countries in the Pacific as well as countries in Oceania,
Asia, and America.
• Countries belonging to Latin America are trapped in turbulent economic environment. Regional matters
like unstable democratic governance and fiscal problems are known challenging facing countries of the
region. Latin and Caribbean countries are described as countries that have experienced "lost
development" because of missed economic opportunities especially in the 60s and 70s.
Causes of Global Divide
1. Globalization in the 1990
The economic intensification observed in the 90s fueled countries to establish boundaries. Poor
countries that can not cope with the demands of the rich and developed countries suffer most of the potential
damage of globalization. Countries of the global south especially under unstable governments and weak
economics failed to produce outputs as a response to the internationalization system of economy and
government.
2. Uneven Immigration
The pattern of migration in the last three decades saw an unprecedented rise of migrant workers and
citizens seeking greener opportunities in other countries. People from Asia targeted Western Europe and
America as ideal point of employment. Developed countries that are on the height of technological
development, advancement, and high quality of social services became the man venues accepting migrants.
3. The hegemonic nature of international economic relations
The global problem of poverty and inequality are outcomes of the evil practices of western countries.
These problems are associated with the abuse of capitalists who control most of the world's wealth.
International institutions that have the power and resources are very silent and unresponsive in this problems
experiencing countries in the global south. Countries in the global south are trapped in the hands of developed
countries where rising financial obligations like loam programs are continuously punishing economies of the
south.