To what extent is "globalization" the same as "westernization"?

Question

Does globalization always entail an imposition of, or trend towards, western culture, values, and ways of life? Or can globalization occur independently of western influences? Are rising global cultures (youth cultures, mass cultures, etc) inherently "western", or are they simply "global"? In other words, are they centered in a concrete geography, or are they decentered and fragmented? This question will require some thought. I'm interested in seeing what different people around the world think. Please don't respond unless you put some significant thought into your answer. Thank you.

Answer 1

Not necessarily. Globalization is inter-connecting markets which is free-trade, and usually capitalism. As far as other aspect of various cultures, not really. Look at Japan--they have been capitalist for years, and they still have their own cultural identity. Some of Japanese culture has even been transmitted into 'western' cultures. China and India will develop their own values in much the same way Japan did. (under the context of adapting capitalism to their existing morals and values)

Answer 2

I would have to say that globalization has in the past been linked almost directly, and basically correctly, to Westernization. Countries like China and India , which are experiencing breakneck growth, are experiencing economic globalization. However, I don't think that they will be Westernized easily. Both countries are radically different than Western countries. They have different cultures, languages, food, values, etc. I believe that in these cases the countries will achieve cohesion with the rest of the world on the economic aspects while still retaining their rich culture. However, the definition of "Western" is also changing. The Western world, especially North America, which has experienced large scale immigration from every corner of the world has been changed for ever. In England Indian movies and Cuisines are becoming ever more popular. Jazz music, originally invented by black musicians, is now common in the rest of the Western world. Words are borrowed from different languages. i.e Guru. In other words, the meaning of the word "Western" and what is entailed within it is constantly changing. The next generation aided by My Space, Facebook, and i.m is more in touch with foreign cultures. I think that in the end the new generations will be global but not Westernized. I think this will eventually result in a generation of people around the world much more similar than people have ever been before. This generation will be influenced from cultures all around the world.

Answer 3

From an "eastern" point of view (like China) "Globalization" would mean "westernization" (taking on characteristics of western culture)

AND

From an "western" point of view (like Canada) "Globalization" would mean "easternization" (taking on characteristics of eastern culture)

Answer 4

Not exactly becuase what is globalized depends on the dominant culture at the time.  Roman, Islamic, and British culture have all been globalized at some time.  However, when a non-dominant culture is spread to the rest of the world, such as the popularity of Bollywood films, yoga, or meditation, this is sometimes called "glocalization".  I'm not sure how useful that distinction is but if you hear that term, that's what it means.

Answer 5

Well--it is of my opinion-that globalization-is better Communism-through conservationism---Westernization-is really-free people-making free choices- free markets-capitalism-

Answer 6

Perhaps it could mean some form of Modernization. That is basically what westernization is, or at least was.