I. Introduction
The Present era is termed as the age of globalization and has seen the rise of neo-colonialism. Global North on account of economic might and technological superiority – is increasingly using various instruments of globalization to control the economy, polity and social processes of the developing world.
II. Defining Key Variables
A. Globalization: increasing interconnectedness of the world community owing to the free movement of people, capital, and goods transforming the world into a global village.
B. Colonialism: the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.
III. How Globalization Is The New Form Of Colonialism
1. Economic Exploitation and Dependency
A. Colonial Economic Exploitation
Resources extraction during colonial times;
Exploitation of Africa’s natural resources by colonial powers, leading to economic disparities that persist today.
Case study of a colonized country’s economic exploitation
B. Globalization and Economic Dependency
Wealth distribution in the global economy;
The concentration of wealth in a few global powers while many nations struggle with poverty.
Countries are trapped in debt cycles due to globalisation;
Developing countries fall into debt traps due to unequal terms of trade and loans from developed nations or international financial institutions.
2. Cultural Hegemony and Western Dominance
A. Colonial Cultural Hegemony
Suppression of Indigenous cultures;
Colonial powers imposed their languages, religions, and cultures on the colonized, suppressing indigenous traditions and beliefs.
B. Globalization’s Cultural Homogenization
Dominance of Western media and cultural products;
Dominance of Hollywood films and Western fast-food chains globally to highlight how local cultures are marginalized or erased.
3. Social Inequality and Power Imbalances
1. Media and Entertainment
Hollywood films and TV shows often set global entertainment standards, reflecting Western values and lifestyles. These productions often overshadow local or indigenous entertainment in many regions worldwide.
2. Language and Communication
English has become the primary language of business, education, and international communication due to Western influence. Non-English-speaking countries often adopt English, leading to the marginalization of local languages and cultures.
3. Consumerism and Branding
Companies like Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, and Starbucks symbolize Western consumerism, impacting local dietary habits and lifestyles. Preference for Western brands often supersedes support for local products and businesses.
4. Education and Academic Influence
Western academic standards and curriculum frameworks are often adopted by educational institutions globally. Textbooks and scholarly works often emphasize Western history, philosophy, and scientific advancements, overshadowing contributions from other cultures.
5. Fashion and Trends
Fashion weeks in cities like Paris, Milan, and New York set global trends and fashion standards. Local clothing traditions are sometimes replaced by Western fashion, impacting cultural identities.
6. Digital Culture and Technology
Big tech companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook shape digital lifestyles and norms globally. Their platforms and algorithms often prioritize Western content and perspectives.
IV. Framework To Eradicate Colonialism
A. Democratising institutions of global governance
B. Vibrant role of media to increase awareness regarding this practice
C. Onus on the developed world to shun their exploitation of the developing countries
V. Conclusion
A. Recap of the Parallels Between Globalization and Colonialism
B. Call for Balanced and Equitable Globalization
C. Final Thoughts on Addressing the Injustices of Globalization