. Choose
one product or object that you encounter in your everyday life and discuss how its history has
been shaped by globalisation. Think of any familiar fashion, food,or cultural
examples.
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
One product that I encounter in my everyday life that has been shaped by globalization is the smartphone.
Globalization can be understood as the process of increased interconnectedness and interdependence among nations, economies, and cultures. It has been driven by advancements in transportation, communication, and technology, which have made it easier for people, goods, and ideas to move globally. Globalization has resulted in the integration of markets, the spread of ideas and technology, and the emergence of multinational corporations.
The history of the smartphone can be traced back to the invention of the telephone in the late 19th century. Over time, telephone technology advanced, leading to the development of mobile phones in the 20th century. However, it was not until the late 20th and early 21st century that smartphones as we know them today emerged.
Initially, smartphones were mainly limited to a few developed countries like the United States and Japan. However, with the advent of globalization, the production and availability of smartphones expanded to a global scale. The outsourcing of manufacturing to countries with lower labor costs, such as China and Taiwan, played a significant role in the globalization of smartphone production. This enabled smartphones to become more affordable and accessible to people worldwide.
Furthermore, the spread of the internet and the advancements in wireless communication technology facilitated the globalization of smartphones. The ability to connect to the internet and access various applications and services on smartphones has transformed the way people communicate, gather information, and conduct businesses. This connectivity has broken down geographical barriers and enhanced global communication and collaboration.
Today, multinational corporations such as Apple, Samsung, and Huawei dominate the global smartphone market. These companies source components and labor from different countries, assemble the smartphones in one location, and distribute them worldwide. Globalization has allowed these companies to tap into a global consumer base, driving innovation and competition in the smartphone industry.
The cultural impact of smartphones cannot be understated. They have become an integral part of people's daily lives, influencing how individuals interact, consume media, and experience the world. The global spread of smartphone usage has led to the emergence of new social norms, such as constant connectivity, the sharing of personal experiences through social media, and the proliferation of digital content consumption.
In conclusion, the history of the smartphone has been shaped by globalization. The interconnectedness brought about by globalization has facilitated the production, distribution, and adoption of smartphones on a global scale. This has transformed how people communicate, access information, and experience the world, making smartphones an essential product in our everyday lives.
Step 1: Understand Globalisation as a historical force
Globalisation refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of countries through the exchange of goods, services, information, and cultural influences. It is a multifaceted process that involves the integration of economies, technologies, politics, and cultures on a global scale.
Step 2: Choose a product you use every day.
For the purpose of this discussion, let's consider the smartphone as the chosen product.
Step 3: Explore the history of your chosen product.
The history of the smartphone can be traced back to the late 20th century when the concept of mobile communication emerged. Initially, mobile phones were bulky and limited to voice calls and text messaging. However, with advancements in technology, the functionality of mobile phones expanded to include internet access, multimedia capabilities, and various applications.
The globalisation of the smartphone industry can be seen through the involvement of multinational corporations and the global supply chain. Companies like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei design their devices in one country, manufacture their components in many countries, and assemble them in yet another country. This global production network enables cost-effective manufacturing and access to a diverse range of resources and expertise.
In addition to the production process, the globalisation of the smartphone industry is also evident in the dissemination of technology and innovation. Companies invest heavily in research and development, collaborating with scientists, engineers, and designers from around the world. This collaborative effort facilitates the rapid advancements and technological breakthroughs seen in smartphones.
Step 4: Connect your chosen product to your historical understanding of globalisation.
The globalisation of the smartphone industry has significantly shaped its history. It has allowed for the expansion and integration of global markets, leading to fierce competition among companies. This competition, driven by globalisation, has resulted in constant innovation and technological advancements in smartphones.
Furthermore, globalisation has enabled the widespread adoption of smartphones across the world. With the accessibility and affordability of smartphones, people from various countries and backgrounds have become connected in ways never seen before. Smartphones have revolutionized how we communicate, access information, and engage in social, economic, and cultural activities.
In conclusion, the history of smartphones has been heavily shaped by globalisation. From the production process to technological advancements and market expansion, the influence of globalisation can be seen at various stages. Smartphones serve as a prime example of how globalisation has transformed everyday products, making them ubiquitous and integral to our modern lives.