14. Discussion: Positive and negative sides of globalization.

1. Read one of the opinions on the problem of globalization. Consider how the use of linking words and phrases helps to more points, arguments, information.

In the present age, globalization is playing an increasingly important role in our lives. But in the meantime a heated debate has sparked. Some people argue that globalization has a fundamentally beneficial influence on our lives, while many others contend that it has a detrimental effect as well.

A convincing argument can be made about globalization not only playing a pivotal role in the development of technology and economy, but also promoting the cultural exchange between different countries. To start with, it is the globalization that impelled many corporate to become an international group, thereby making a contribution to the local technology and employment. Specifically, when a multinational group establish a factory in a developing country, the new equipment, the new management skills and the job vacancies are all in the best interest of the local society. Moreover, people worldwide can get to know each other better through globalization. It is easy to see that more and more Hollywood blockbusters show cultures different from American.

Admittedly, profit driven globalization has severely affected young people. Today, in the metropolises in different countries, it is very common to see teenagers wearing NIKE* T-shirts and Adidas footwear, playing Hip-Hop music on Apple iPods and eating fast food. The culture that took a thousand years to form just seems similar in these cities; it looks like you can only distinguish them by their language. Meanwhile, in some developing countries, sweat workshops are always a concerning issue. For instance, reports show that some teenagers employed by NIKE’s contractors work in smelly factories over 14 hours a day, but are only paid fifty cents per hour.

In summary, I would concede that globalization does come with some adverse effects. Despite that fact, benefits created by it far outweigh the disadvantages. Overall, I am convinced that we should further promote globalization and meanwhile the local government should take measures to combat culture assimilation and sweat workshops.

*NIKE /ˈnaɪki/ «Найкі» (товарний знак популярного спортивного одягу та взуття виробництва компанії Nike)

B. Give your own opinion on globalization using the following hints:

Linking Words and Phrases

In addition, besides, however, nevertheless, despite the fact that, furthermore, moreover, similarly, on the other hand, in contrast, due to, owing to, on account of, as a result, consequently, therefore.

Word-combinations on the topic:

• lower transport costs;

• competition from low-cost economies;

• information technologies;

• monopoly of the trans-national corporations;

• potential threat to the national identity;

• to get access to new markets and sources of finance and technology;

• to have access to a larger variety of goods at lower prices;

• to migrate to other countries;

• to get a well-paid job;

• to encourage global trade;

• to manage migration as a source of workers;

• to rise international economic integration.

OVER TO YOU