Lesson 1.2

Section Summary and Glossary

People and activity shape globalization and in turn, globalization shapes people and their ways of life. Globalization began when individuals and nations established contact outside of their borders. These contacts resulted in the exchange of goods, services, and ideas. As trade grew in importance amongst individuals and nations, globalization increased. Globalization rapidly connects people globally as technology in communication, transportation, and production increase the speed and quantity of global contacts. Globalization is now considered a force that has evolved and continues to evolve. It can appear as an economic, social, or political force with impacts on economic, social, and political dimensions of people’s lives and identities.

Forces of economic, social, and/or political globalization are influences from beyond the borders of communities. For Canadians, globalization can have little or immense impact on their daily lives and who they are. Globalization can become a tool to preserve or sustain distinct cultures and languages, or it can eventually erase unique characteristics of a community as people increasingly share similar aspects of daily life with other communities. It is important to determine to what extent people should embrace globalization both for those who value their distinct identity and for those who believe that one shared global identity is vital to ensuring a quality of life for all citizens of the world.

economic: related to the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services

political: related to government, authority, and the carrying out of actions on behalf of the citizens

quality of life: social, economic, and political conditions that contribute to the satisfaction people have with their lives

The struggle to access food, clothing, and shelter may reflect a low quality of life. A high quality of life may reflect the balance between work and leisure.

social: related to the interaction between individuals and groups

sovereignty: authority or power to rule