Choose one product or object that you encounter in your everyday life and discuss how its history has
been shaped by globalisation. write an essay of 600 words Using footnote intext reference and make sure you paraphrase your work
To help you answer this question, follow these steps.
1) Understand Globalisation as a historical force.
2) Choose a product you use every day.
3) Explore the history of your chosen product.
4) Connect your chosen product to your historical understanding of globalisation
The history of globalization is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has shaped various aspects of our lives, including the products and objects we encounter on a daily basis. Among the vast array of products that have been significantly impacted by globalization, one that stands out is the smartphone. This essay will explore the history of the smartphone and demonstrate how its development and proliferation have been shaped by the forces of globalization.
The smartphone, as we know it today, is a result of a long and intricate history that spans several decades. It can be traced back to the early developments in telecommunication and computing technologies, which were initially separate fields. However, with the advancement of technology and the increasing global interconnectedness, these fields began to converge, giving birth to the modern-day smartphone.
The history of the smartphone can be linked to the concept of globalization in two significant ways. Firstly, globalization has facilitated the exchange of ideas and knowledge across borders, which has played a crucial role in the evolution of telecommunication technology. The development of smartphone technologies can be seen as a product of global collaboration and the sharing of knowledge between different countries and cultures.
For instance, the origins of the basic principles underlying smartphone technology can be traced back to the invention of the telephone by Alexander Graham Bell in the late 19th century. Bell's invention revolutionized communication, marking the beginning of the global interconnectedness that would later facilitate the birth of the smartphone. Over the course of the 20th century, advancements in telecommunication technology were made by scientists and engineers from various countries, including the United States, Germany, Japan, and South Korea.
The second way in which globalization has shaped the history of the smartphone is through the global distribution networks that have enabled its mass production and consumption. The manufacturing and assembly of smartphones have become increasingly globalized, with different components produced in various countries and then assembled in specialized factories located in different parts of the world.
This globalization of manufacturing can be attributed to factors such as lower labor costs, access to raw materials, and the existence of specialized suppliers. Companies like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei have established global supply chains that connect factories in countries like China, Taiwan, South Korea, and the United States. These global supply chains allow for the rapid production and distribution of smartphones to meet the demands of a global consumer market.
Furthermore, the globalization of communication and information technology has played a significant role in the spread and popularity of smartphones. The advent of the internet and the development of wireless communication networks have allowed for seamless connectivity and access to information from anywhere in the world. This has facilitated the growth of the smartphone market by making it easier for companies to market their products globally and for consumers to stay connected.
In conclusion, the history of the smartphone demonstrates how globalization has shaped the development and proliferation of this product. The exchange of ideas and knowledge between different countries and cultures has played a crucial role in the evolution of smartphone technology. Furthermore, the globalization of manufacturing and the global distribution networks have enabled the mass production and consumption of smartphones. Lastly, the globalization of communication and information technology has contributed to the spread and popularity of smartphones worldwide. The smartphone serves as a prominent example of how globalization has influenced the objects and products that make up our everyday lives.
Step 1: Understand Globalisation as a historical force.
Globalisation can be understood as the process in which ideas, people, goods, and services flow across national borders, resulting in an interconnected and interdependent world. It is a force that has shaped the modern world and has been ongoing for centuries. Globalisation has significant historical implications as it has played a pivotal role in shaping the economies, cultures, and societies of different nations. It has impacted various aspects such as trade, technology, communication, and transportation.
Step 2: Choose a product you use every day.
One product that has become an integral part of our everyday life is the smartphone. Smartphones have revolutionized the way we communicate, access information, and perform various tasks. They have become a ubiquitous device in today's interconnected world.
Step 3: Explore the history of your chosen product.
The history of smartphones can be traced back to the late 20th century when mobile phones were first introduced. However, it was not until the early 2000s that smartphones began to gain popularity. The rapid advancements in technology, particularly in terms of miniaturization and computing power, made it possible to develop handheld devices with advanced functionality.
The early versions of smartphones were primarily limited to basic communication features such as calling and texting. However, as globalisation progressed, so did the capabilities of smartphones. With the advent of the internet and the increasing connectivity across the globe, smartphones started to integrate various features such as email, web browsing, and social media applications.
Globalisation played a crucial role in this process. The increasing global adoption of the internet, coupled with the advancements in telecommunications infrastructure, allowed for seamless connectivity and information exchange. This facilitated the development and spread of the smartphone technology across different parts of the world.
Step 4: Connect your chosen product to your historical understanding of globalisation.
The development and widespread adoption of smartphones have been heavily influenced by globalisation. The global manufacturing and supply chains have played a significant role in making smartphones widely available and affordable. The production of smartphones involves components sourced from various countries, highlighting the interconnected nature of global supply chains.
Companies like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei have become global giants in the smartphone industry, with their products being sold and used worldwide. They utilize global manufacturing facilities, taking advantage of cost-effective labor in countries like China and India. The distribution networks are also global in scale, allowing smartphones to reach consumers in different parts of the world.
Furthermore, the global reach of smartphones has had profound social and cultural implications. It has transformed the way we interact, communicate, and access information. Social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, have become integral to our social lives, facilitating global connections and the exchange of ideas. The dissemination of news and information has become instantaneous, leading to a significant impact on politics, activism, and social movements.
In conclusion, the history of smartphones has been shaped by globalisation. The interconnected nature of the global economy, technological advancements, and the increasing connectivity across the world have enabled their development, production, and adoption on a global scale. The widespread use of smartphones has transformed various aspects of our lives, demonstrating the far-reaching effects of globalisation in shaping our everyday experiences.