International studies, Vol. IV No. 2, 2004.
Original scientific paper
Dilemmas of Globalization
Zbigniew Brzezinski
Abstract
Globalization offers states a mix of incentives. On one hand, it presents an opportunity for economic growth, the inflow of foreign capital, and the gradual reduction of widespread poverty. On the other hand, it often threatens massive dislocation, loss of national control over basic economic assets, and social exploitation. For a select group, it provides an opening to new markets and de facto political domination. The concept of globalization has thus acquired several meanings and serves several purposes. The term all at once provides an allegedly objective diagnosis of world conditions; encapsulates a doctrinal preference; precipitates a counter-creed (or an antithesis) that rejects that preference; and generates a pointed political-cultural critique designed to alter the existing global power hierarchy. ln every one of these manifestations, the concept of globalization serves as the defining feature of either empirical or normative reality. For some, it dissects what it is; for others, it defines what ought to be; for others still, what ought not to be; and for many, it does all of this at the same time.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
287089
URI
Publication date:
15.7.2004.
Visits: 336 *