THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD
GROUP 5: Social Dimension Of Globalization
1. Definition (Introduction)
The International Labour Organization (2003) states that the social dimension of globalization
deals with how it affects people's lives and careers, as well as their families and society. Since it
focuses on how globalization affects people's relationships with one another, we may simply state it
as social globalization. Furthermore, it can also refer to its impact on societies, cultures, and
individuals. It includes cultural exchange, migration, labor rights, education, and health.
Importance
Cultural Exchange – It promotes diversity
Migration & Workforce – It is easy for us to migrate and work to other countries
Technology & Communication – It is easier to communicate and have access to technology
Education & Knowledge – It is now easy to learn and gain knowledge
Health & Welfare – It improves global health standards
Human Rights & Justice – It raises awareness on issues like gender inequality, labor rights,
and environmental sustainability.
Globalization have a very positive effects on our world, but it also have challenges like
excessive use of technology and unremembered culture and traditions.
2. Social Condition before and after (present) the Globalization
Global
Globalization made its impact all over the world. However, during those times that countries
isn’t interconnected, there were:
Strong National Identities: Countries were more isolated, with strong national identities and
distinct cultural practices. People often identified primarily with their local communities and
national heritage.
Limited International Interaction: International interaction was primarily limited to
governments and a few large corporations. Travel and communication were more difficult,
making it harder to experience other cultures firsthand.
Social Norms and Values: Social norms and values were largely shaped by local traditions
and customs, with less influence from global trends.
After globalization, vast transition occurred including the:
Interconnectedness and Cultural Exchange: Globalization has led to increased
interconnectedness and cultural exchange. People are more exposed to different cultures
through travel, media, and technology. This has led to a greater understanding of different
perspectives and ways of life.
Migration and Diversity: Globalization has spurred migration, with people moving to different
countries for work, education, or family reasons. This has increased diversity in many
countries, leading to new social interactions and cultural blends.
Globalized Social Issues: Globalization has also created new global social issues, such as
climate change, inequality, and pandemics. These issues require international cooperation
and solutions, highlighting the interconnectedness of the world.
However, along with the transition comes the challenges being faced due to globalization.
Cultural Homogenization: Globalization can lead to cultural homogenization, where
dominant cultures influence and sometimes overshadow local traditions. This can lead to a
loss of cultural diversity.
Social Inequality: Globalization can exacerbate social inequality, as some countries and
groups benefit more from economic integration than others. This can lead to social unrest and
conflict.
Loss of Local Identity: Some people may feel a loss of local identity as global influences
become more prominent. This can lead to a sense of alienation and a desire to preserve
traditional ways.
Local
Before globalization, the social state of our country was said to be more of a localized
autonomy and there is a cultural distinctiveness. Those extremely isolated communities mostly
interacted only within their nearby places. And of course, traditional customs and autonomy is the
foundation of their everyday life, and their economic activity was mainly localized. These group of
people had a strong sense of united identity and belonging since the social structures are often
depended on shared practices and familial relationships. There are:
Strong Community Ties: Filipino society was characterized by strong community ties,
with the barangay system being the dominant form of social organization. This fostered a
sense of belonging and mutual support.
Traditional Values: Filipinos held strong traditional values, emphasizing family, respect for
elders, and community solidarity.
Agrarian Society: The Philippines was largely an agrarian society, with most Filipinos
engaged in subsistence farming, fishing, and trading. This created a strong connection to
the land and a sense of self-sufficiency.
Cultural Diversity: The Philippines boasted a rich tapestry of cultures, influenced by
indigenous traditions, Chinese trade, and early Islamic influences. This diversity
contributed to a vibrant social landscape.
But when globalization took place, the way of living in the Philippines changed specifically on
how people interact with each other in many ways. It opened up new opportunities but also created
some challenges in human relationships or on the social aspect as a whole. In the present times,
there comes:
Migration and Remittances: Globalization led to a surge in overseas Filipino workers
(OFWs), who contribute significantly to the economy through remittances. However, this
also resulted in family separation, weakening community ties, and creating social tensions.
Cultural Change: Increased exposure to Western culture through media and consumer
goods led to a debate over cultural preservation and the potential for homogenization. This
impacted traditional values and beliefs.
Social Inequality: While globalization brought economic growth, the benefits were not
evenly distributed, leading to increased poverty and inequality. This resulted in social
tensions and a widening gap between the rich and poor.
Urbanization: Globalization spurred urbanization, as people moved to cities seeking
better opportunities. This led to challenges in managing urban growth, including
overcrowding, poverty, and social services.
In conclusion, globalization has had a profound impact on the social state of the Philippines,
both opportunities and challenges. While the country has experienced economic growth and
increased global interconnectedness, it also faces issues related to poverty, inequality, and social
fragmentation. The Philippines continues to navigate the complexities of globalization, seeking to
balance its integration into the global economy with the need to address social and economic
disparities.
3. Effects of Globalization in Social Dimension
Globalization has a big impact on social aspects both international and local. These impacts
include more interaction among cultures, expanding migration trends, the widespread
dissemination of ideas, but also challenges with local identities. In terms of advantages, there is an
increased access to knowledge but the downsides are the loss of cultural uniformity and customs
might exist together. It can further result to social challenges, cultural disputes, and increased
awareness of the world, depending on where the people resides. And people may become more
aware of various traditions and lifestyles from aroung the world as a result of globalization, which
makes it easier for cultures to be widely shared through media, travel, and cuisine. Furthermore, by
interacting with people from various backgrounds and taking part in international movements, people
may develop a sense of global citizenship. Globalization as aforementioned, affects migration
patterns, resulting in many people living abroad that preserve cultural ties to their homelands. It is
easy to say that globalization makes it easier to create worldwide networks behind global issues like
human rights and climate change.
While globalization may promote cultural exchange and new social connections through
increased communication and migration flows, it can also cause social tensions and inequalities
depending on the local context. In a local context, globalization can have a significant impact on
social aspects by causing a blend of cultures through increased exposure to global trends, which may
lead to the loss of traditional practices, language loss, and a tendency towards a more homogenized
culture.
In conclusion, globalization has positive but also negative impacts on our society. While it
fosters personal development, relationships, and education, it can also lead to economic struggles
and a loss of cultural identity. Hence, it is crucial to find a balance between adopting new cultures and
maintaining traditions in order to enhance everyone's future.
4. Governance in Relation to Social Dimension of Globalization
Relating governance to social dimension of globalization involves the systems and processes
by which these social changes are managed and regulated, both at the international and local levels.
International
International governance plays a crucial role in shaping the social dimension of globalization.
These international organizations like the United Nations (UN) and its agencies, such as the
International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and the World Health Organization (WHO) establish as well as
implement various policies that promote labor standards, address inequality, ensure access to
healthcare and education, mitigate migration challenges, and protect human rights, international
governance structures address social issues related to globalization. They seek to establish norms,
standards, and mechanisms for international cooperation in order to reduce the negative effects of
globalization on vulnerable populations and to promote inclusive development.
Strong local government is essential for addressing community needs effectively. However,
challenges like lack of funding and corruption can weaken its impact. To improve, local governments
need financial support, control over their resources, and partnerships with businesses and
organizations. Successful teamwork, like territorial pacts in Europe, shows how collaboration
strengthens governance. Additionally, globalization allows local governments to learn from and work
with others. By being responsible, transparent, and open to cooperation, local governments can
better serve their people and promote community development.
Local
The Philippines is a country that has been significantly impacted by globalization. The
country’s local governance plays a vital role in managing the social consequences of globalization.
Local governments are responsible for providing basic services, such as education, healthcare, and
social welfare, to their constituents. Furthermore, globalization has influenced governance by
promoting transparency, efficiency, and innovation. In Cebu, this is evident in various initiatives that
enhance public service and curb corruption.
Positive Effects of Globalization in Cebu
Improved Governance: The city government has adopted online systems for business permits
and property assessments. These digital initiatives promote efficiency and reduce corruption.
Strengthened Global Connections: Cebu has expanded its networks with international cities
and provincial governments. The private sector and civil society groups play a crucial role in
addressing local challenges.
Challenges Brought by Globalization
Persistent Poverty and Inequality: The benefits of globalization are not evenly distributed,
leading to a widening gap between the rich and poor.
The Digital Divide: Unequal access to technology creates disadvantages for certain
communities. Some barangays in and around Cebu lack the necessary skills and resources to
compete in a globalized world.
Local Initiatives to Address These Challenges
Technology and Skills Training: Private sector and civil society groups provide digital resources
to disadvantaged communities.
Public-Private Partnerships: The government collaborates with businesses to create safety
nets for vulnerable groups.
The Concept of Glocalization
Adapting Globalization to Local Needs: Globalization is not inherently good or bad; its effects
depend on how well global opportunities are merged with local realities.
Cebu’s Success Factors
Strong Leadership: Both the government and private sector drive Cebu’s development.
Information and ICT Integration: Data-driven decision-making is key to progress.
Education for Global Labor Markets: Schools must equip students with skills needed
worldwide.
Balanced Mindset: A global outlook should be grounded in local realities.
5. What are the things that need to be done to sustain the social dimensions of globalization?
In order for everyone to ensure that the globalization thing benefits all of us. We should
propose effective strategies such as promoting a sustainable social development. We must focus on
the following important strategies such as that we should ensure fair trade. The trade should be fair
and just, so that we ensure that smaller and poorer countries benefit and are not being exploited by
the larger and more powerful nations. The fair trade policies help create equal opportunities for all
nations. We should also strengthen the social support. Our government and organizations should
provide better access to our healthcare, education, financial aid, and many other essential services
that are needed to support individuals and communities that are affected by globalization. And we
should also encourage the responsible businesses where in all the companies should operate
ethically and should prioritize environmental sustainability, fair wages, and with community support to
prevent exploitation and negative social impacts on everyone. Additionally we definitely need to
promote the cultural respect and exchange. While the globalization connects all or many different
cultures, it is also important that we preserve our local traditions and identities while still encouraging
respectful cultural exchange between us and many other countries. Lastly, enhance the global
cooperation. All countries must work together in order to address the global challenges such as
climate change, fair labor policies, undying corruption, and definitely the social inequality in order for
us to create a more just and inclusive world for every single one of us.
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Group Members:
Borromeo, Mark Jayson
Dollison, Bobsteele Cesar
Lopez, Diana Jane
Pelaez, Sharmaine
Valencia, Lhance Gio
