"The Limitations of Globalization and Transnationalism"

Essay by moon_vixen33University, Bachelor'sA+, December 2004

download word file, 5 pages 3.0

In recent years, there has been a large shift in the international system from the traditional views of nationalism. Political identification and human interaction are increasingly crossing national boundaries to create new global connections. As a result, globalization is becoming a common term associated with world politics. But what exactly is globalization? Does it refer to the merging of nations; a common trade unit; no taxation on imports and exports; political awareness across the world; or, in extremes, even interfering with other countries' domestic affairs? Rourke defines the term as "...the integration of economics, communications, and culture across national boundaries." He also notes that this is greatly attributed to technological advances that have facilitated the fast movement of money, merchandise, people and information across large distances. Transnationalism has grown in connection with globalization and is often viewed as counternationalism, as it connects citizens' attitudes, political identities and interactions across national boundaries.

However, while the frequency of globalization and transnationalism have increased considerably in the past decade, it is unreasonable to assume they will replace nationalism, as they create more problems than they solve. One has to question the possibilities, advantages and risks of world citizenship, and realize that the consequences outweigh any future benefits. In some ways globalization may be useful in creating a common sense of political identity, and it appears that such organizations as the United Nations and the European Union are assisting this process.

Presently, the greatest example of regional transnationalism exists in the form of the European Union (EU). While its primary objective was to advance economic integration among European nations, it has also slowly succeeded in achieving minimal political amalgamation. However, the EU restricts taxes on trade between members and has also instituted a common currency, the Euro, which became available at the...