My opinion on globalization and global citizenship

As I have progressed through this Social 10 course on globalization, I have attained an innovative understanding of how interconnected the world is economically, politically, environmentally, and socially. It has opened my eyes to a perspective that has educated me on global issues and made me aware of the opportunities and challenges of globalization; this course also illustrates what it means to be a responsible global citizen who is actively involved in the local and global community and who promotes sustainable prosperity for the earth and all its inhabitants.

Various aspects of globalization such as communication technologies and media are significant elements in the shaping of our individual and collective identities. These components serve to globalize the social, economical, environmental, and political aspects of our lives and “broaden our horizons” as it were, expanding our identities. However, being increasingly interconnected threatens to homogenize and “globalize” our identity, decreasing diversity.

Globalization does not benefit everyone – it widens the gap between the rich and the poor, the developed and undeveloped, and provides few opportunities for the underprivileged to benefit from globalization and its aspects. Also, the communications gap often silences the voices of the poor and their appeals for help. In the developed and quickly developing world, the focus is on moving forward rather than working collectively to construct a world that is fair and beneficial for all. As global citizens, we must envision the prospect of a humanitarian globalization that sustains the world and all its inhabitants, collaborate to right past wrongs, and establish legacies of peace and equality. Differences must be recognized, understood, and accepted. Working together as a global community, we must break free from the rut of injustice and discrimination that has predominantly characterized globalization thus far, humanitarianly redefining and reforming this life-changing concept.

In essence, globalization is inevitable – it can’t be stopped, even though many around the world attempt to bring it to a halt. Instead of fighting against globalization, we must embrace it and use it as a tool to better the lives of all people. It is our responsibility as global citizens to understand how globalization works, as well as recognize the advantages and challenges it presents, and utilize it for the benefit of the world and its inhabitants. Individual action and involvement on the political, environmental, social, and economical level – no matter how big or small – is where change begins.