Globalization

Globalization is the process which connects people, nations, and cultures all over the world through communication networks and trade. According to Professor Straubhaar’s lecture, the process provides increased opportunities for communication, exchange of material and symbolic goods, and migration of people across national borders. Because of globalization, the access to interact with individuals across the nation is as efficient and smoother as ever.

Culture Imperialism involves in promoting a powerful culture and infusing the culture of one society into another. Usually, this is seen as a dominance of a powerful culture over a less known or desirable culture. Through the works of globalization, a much more dominant and successful culture can slightly or drastically change an adjacent culture by altering their economy, social system, and/or way of life. Music, films, fashion, etc. are all great examples as to how the US uses cultural imperialism with globalization to infuse into other cultures.

To illustrate cultural imperialism in the media, Disney, a Western corporation, is the largest media and entertainment conglomerate in the world. Supported through transnationalization within a cultural-linguistic market, the Disney Channel can be heard in multiple languages those including, South Africa, Pakistan, Israel, France, etc. Because of such cultural proximity, society is in quick favor from the connection in one’s native language, it is easier for them to accept what Disney has to offer as enjoyment in their homes and lives. No other television channel has had such success and dominance in the global media flow in other countries as Disney has.