Information Society - Globalisation

===Definition===

Globalization is the '...intensification of networks, alliances and interconnections in economics, cultures and politics and the particular form they now take rater than the occurrences themselves.' (Hartley, 2002, P.97-99)

===Relevance===

Globalization is linked with the notion of an Information Society as the emphasis and importance of exchange of information is a facilitator to creating intense networks and alliances which characterize Globalization; just as the intense networks provided by globalization facilitate the exchange of information which is required for an Information Society to exist.

===Examples of Globalisation===

• International law enforcement co-operation programs such as the Australian federal polices’: 'Online Child Sex Exploitation Team' (OCSET) which works with other countries to apprehend criminals involved in child exploitation.
• Opening of trade barriers
• Global control of infectious diseases such as the 'bird flu.'
• Cultural enrichment, transference and sometimes imperialism.
• Environmental standards such as the Kyoto Agreement.
• Economic Stability: IMF & the World Bank.
• Development of countries deemed 'undeveloped.' And the advancement of disadvantaged minorities.

(Globalisation.org, 2002)

===An Implication===

Globalization is changing the way society is structured through its facilitation of the Information Society. As the 'global village' becomes perceptually smaller stable associations such as communities are no longer stable, it is now possible to maintain - or be rid of - various acquaintances and groups easily. This effect of globalization is very closely linked to the Information Society as it leads to unstable human relationships facilitated by communication technology.

References

Hartley, J (2002)Communication, Cultural and Media Studies: The Key Concepts, 3rd (edn) Great Britain, Routledge. ISBN 0415268893

Globalisation.org (2002)CSIS Globalisation101.org: a students guide to globalisation, CSIS, http://www.globalization101.org/issue/, accessed on 26/10/2005

Word Count

282
Kristin Huddleston 01:18, 28 Oct 2005 (EST)