Here comes the West...

My previous posts regarding the decline of the US dollar in the international market, the heightening of the world food shortage crisis, and the impact of biofuels on the food crisis reflect the globalization of the international system. These issues show how the states are dependent on one another, seeing as how they have to work together through institutions to resolve the problems. Globalization is good when it comes to collective collaboration towards common global issues. However, globalization also encompasses the spread of ideas from culture to culture. Some believe that globalization will lead to homogenization, in which civilizations will converge to a similar culture as a result of spreading of ideas. The sharing of ideas can be seen as a good thing or a bad thing. For example, information regarding new technology can be introduced by developed nations to poorer underdeveloped nations to help them industrialize. However, others see the transfer of ideas as a form of corruption of their own cultures. Many criticize specifically the US for “Americanizing” their cultures. As we discussed in section, Venezuela recently place restrictions on the airing of American television show “The Simpsons”. Venezuelan government criticized the show for corrupting children with inappropriate material. The first decision was to ban the show completely; however, now it will only be aired late at night and less frequently. It is important to note that Venezuela is run by a socialist government that is under the rule of Hugo Chavez, who strongly resembles a dictator. The socialist government of Venezuela and the democratic government of America are run according to very different values and norms. Chavez will do all he can to prevent the spread of democracy into his country. The ban on “The Simpsons” is symbolic of his intent to keep American beliefs and norms out of Venezuela. There are those who welcome globalization with open arms as it offers a wide range of opportunities; then, there are those who see globalization as a means for corruption by the West.