By Staff Writer | Last Updated August 4, 2015
The factors that led to globalization in the 21st century include the Internet, improvements in transportation, freedom of trade, availability of labor, democracy and popular culture. Globalization results from the integration of international trade and the exchange of values and ideas among world populations.
Innovative transportation technologies of the 21st century facilitate the migration of people across the world for trade and the search of new opportunities. In addition, international organizations such as the World Trade Organization remove barriers from trade, leading to integration of world economies.
Mobile technologies and the Internet allow people to communicate with efficiency, which promotes business activities as well as social and cultural exchange. Low labor costs and high levels of skill in countries such as India facilitate the globalization of trade because international companies are attracted by opportunities within these new markets. Democratic political developments also contribute to globalization by promoting more open societies.
Popular culture promotes globalization through television programs, movies, musicians and actors that are admired by societies across the world. International cooperation in areas such as military operations and environmental programs also promote globalization. Globalization is beneficial because it facilitates economic growth and standards of living. It also encourages global competition, creativity and innovation. Globalization also promotes global justice in trade, diversity and social equality.
However, globalization can cause a loss of valuable resources to other countries, as noted by About.com. It also causes the fading of individual cultures. Inadequate international regulation, which characterizes the globalized world, may have negative consequences on the environment and the safety of people.
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