Is globalisation a good or bad thing?

Positives:

People and businesses can keep in touch with one another, no matter where they are in the world or what the time zone is.

Manufacturers have access to larger markets using the Internet

Jobs can be outsourced around the world using international ICT networks. This leads to more jobs in developing countries.

Goods and services are easily available to purchase from pretty much anywhere and payment is easy no matter where you are purchasing them from.

The web can highlight common ground between different cultures. People can be more tolerant of different cultures as they begin to understand them better.

The web allows people who are isolated to find others who have similar attitudes or issues. For example, those working against oppression can contact others outside their society for assistance and support (so long as their Government do not censor the messages)

Negatives:

A lot of people have lost thier jobs due to companies sending production or services to other countries where labour is cheaper.

Not everyone has access to the benefits of globalisation. Not everyone has a computer or the skills to use one. Not everyone lives in an area of the world where the Internet is available.

Globalisation can lead to standardisation and people are concerned that national and cultural identity is being eroded. For example, McDonalds can be found in almost every city on the planet.

Some governments place restrictions on what their citizens are allowed to read or do on the Internet. People in these countries aren't able to take advantage of free trade or free speech.

Access to online shopping can lead to frustration in countries where most people earn very low wages and cannot afford to buy the goods available

Jobs being outsourced to developing countries who have lower wages can lead to job losses in developed countries.

In order to access the Internet and benefit from Globalisation, less developed countries may have to substantially invest in telecommunications and power networks. They may not have the finance to do this.

Terrorism and fraud can be organised more easily on a global scale.