5.4.1 Globalization and Democracy
Completion requirements
5.4.1 Globalization and Freedom
Is there a connection between globalization and freedom?
During the Industrial Revolution, people started to become more wealthy. As they accumulated more money, they started to demand a greater voice in who had power over them. Eventually, the average person obtained the right to vote for elected representatives. The average person became more free. A similar movement is occurring in various parts of the world today.
Thanks to communications technology, people can see what is happening in other countries. Many people in poorer nations are becoming more wealthy — or less poor. Sometimes they demand political power to go with their new economic power. They are also more educated. They wonder if there is a better way forward, and they look for forms of government that they hope will improve their lives.
Is there a connection between globalization and freedom?
As people around the world begin to have more money, will they demand more control over their lives? Will they insist on the right to choose their leaders and decide on the government policies that affect them? As people become increasingly connected through technology and the buying and selling of goods, will they demand democratic governments?
Thanks to communications technology, people can see what is happening in other countries. Many people in poorer nations are becoming more wealthy — or less poor. Sometimes they demand political power to go with their new economic power. They are also more educated. They wonder if there is a better way forward, and they look for forms of government that they hope will improve their lives.
Reflect
Is there a connection between globalization and freedom?
As people around the world begin to have more money, will they demand more control over their lives? Will they insist on the right to choose their leaders and decide on the government policies that affect them? As people become increasingly connected through technology and the buying and selling of goods, will they demand democratic governments?
