Power, places and networks Flashcards
Why can levels of globalisation be measured, and what spatial variations exist?
Levels of globalisation can be measured to show the extent to which countries participate in global interactions. Spatial variations exist, with some countries being ‘cores’ (central hubs of high interactions) and others being ‘peripheries’ (low interaction levels). Semi-peripheral regions are transitional, becoming more or less globalised over time.
What is an example of global interactions that highlights core and peripheral regions?
Global air traffic is an example of global interactions. Core regions, such as major economic hubs, have dense international flight networks, while peripheral regions have fewer connections.
Why is globalisation not inevitable or universal? Provide examples.
Globalisation is not inevitable or universal because some nations and cultures limit interactions due to political or physical isolation. For example, North Korea is politically isolated, while Tibet faces physical isolation due to its geography.
What are examples of reversals in globalisation trends?
Reversals in globalisation include the rise of protectionism in the USA and Brexit (the UK’s exit from the EU), which may reduce global interactions for these countries.
What is protectionism?
Protectionism is a set of government policies aimed at protecting domestic jobs and industries from foreign competition by imposing tariffs and quotas on imports to make them more expensive.
How does globalisation differ from global interactions?
Globalisation is primarily an economic process involving international operations of industries like TNCs. In contrast, global interactions encompass economic, social, cultural, and political exchanges between nations.
What is a TNC, and what is an example of early globalisation involving a TNC?
A Transnational Corporation (TNC) operates across multiple countries. An example is the Ford Motor Company, which became one of the first TNCs in 1911 when it opened an assembly plant in Manchester, England.
How has Ford Motor Company contributed to globalisation?
Ford expanded globally throughout the 20th century, operating in 90 countries and employing around 250,000 workers. Its practices (e.g., assembly lines) influenced industries worldwide, spreading Western economic systems and culture.
What criticisms exist regarding the cultural impacts of globalisation?
Critics argue that globalisation imposes Western systems and values on other cultures, often seen as a form of cultural imperialism where recipient societies are unwilling participants in a one-sided relationship.
What is the KOF Index of Globalisation?
The KOF Index measures levels of globalisation using a composite score (0–100), combining economic, political, and social dimensions. It allows for comparisons across countries and time periods.
What are the three dimensions measured by the KOF Index and their weightings (2016)?
The three dimensions are:
- Economic globalisation (36%)
- Political globalisation (27%)
- Social globalisation (37%).
What sub-indices are included under economic globalisation in the KOF Index?
Economic globalisation includes the volume of cross-border trade, such as imports and exports, foreign direct investment (FDI), and other revenue flows. It also considers the number of restrictions on trade, including import tariffs and non-tariff barriers.
What sub-indices are included under political globalisation in the KOF Index?
Political globalisation is measured by the number of foreign embassies and high commissions operating within a country, the number of international organisations to which the country belongs, participation in UN peace missions, and the number of international agreements signed since 1945.
What sub-indices are included under social globalisation in the KOF Index?
Social globalisation includes personal contact, which measures direct cross-border interactions such as telephone calls, letters, tourist flows, and the size of resident foreign populations. It also includes cross-border information flows, measured by access to the internet, global television services, and foreign press media products. Cultural proximity is another sub-index that evaluates how close a society is to the global mainstream. This was initially measured by the number of McDonald’s outlets but later expanded to include IKEA stores.
What were some key findings from the KOF Index in 2016?
In 2016, the Netherlands was ranked as the most globalised country with an index score of 91.70. The Cayman Islands were ranked lowest in 184th place with a score of 32.18. Smaller Western economies were among the most globalised countries, while larger economies like the USA (ranked 34) and China (ranked 73) occupied lower positions.
What are some strengths of the KOF Index?
The KOF Index provides a comprehensive overview of globalisation and allows for easy, objective comparisons over time and across countries. It incorporates a large number of variables (23 in total), covering economic, political, and social aspects of globalisation. The data is sourced from reliable institutions such as the World Bank, UN, IMF, UNESCO, and others. Additionally, five-year running mean values are used for each variable to reduce statistical outliers.
What are some limitations of the KOF Index?
The KOF Index has several limitations. Reported data may be outdated or inaccurate due to challenges in data collection. It gives too much emphasis to outdated communication methods like letters while underemphasising emails and social media. Cultural proximity is measured using Western retailers like IKEA and McDonald’s, which introduces bias. Informal or black-market economies are excluded despite their significant role in globalisation. Additionally, economic, political, and social dimensions are not equally weighted.
Why was the Kearney Globalization Index discontinued after 2007?
The Kearney Globalization Index was discontinued because it was assumed that economic globalisation had become an entrenched and unstoppable phenomenon by that time. As a result, annual updates were deemed unnecessary.
Define global superpower
A global superpower is a nation or a group of nations that is able to project dominating power and influence anywhere in the world, sometimes simultaneously in more than one place.
Define hegemony
Hegemony is cultural or political leadership and influence by one nation over others.
What is the traditional and modern concept of ‘power projection’?
Traditionally, power projection referred to the hard power of military force, such as the USA’s use of the MOAB weapon in Afghanistan in 2017. Modern power projection also includes less coercive methods like political negotiation and economic relationships, exemplified by China’s Confucius Institutes.
What is soft power, and how does it relate to superpowers?
Soft power is the non-coercive influence exerted by a superpower through cultural appeal and attraction. It extends hegemony by spreading elements of its lifestyle, such as media, education, and consumer products, which are perceived as desirable.
How did World Wars I and II contribute to the rise of superpowers?
World War I weakened European economies, leading to the decline of powers like Great Britain while strengthening the USA and USSR. World War II further elevated these nations, with the USSR extending its influence over Eastern Europe and both countries becoming industrially and militarily dominant.
What was the Cold War, and how did it shape global superpower dynamics?
The Cold War (late 1940s–early 1990s) was a period of geopolitical tension between the USA and USSR. It involved an arms race, political alliances like NATO (USA-led) and the Warsaw Pact (USSR-led), and competition for global influence. The USSR’s dissolution in 1991 left the USA as the sole superpower.
What are some characteristics that define a superpower?
A superpower is characterized by economic strength (e.g., large GDP), political influence (e.g., leadership in international organizations), military capabilities (e.g., nuclear weapons, blue-water navy), cultural dominance (e.g., global media reach), demographic strength (e.g., large population), and access to natural resources.
How does the USA compare to China in terms of globalisation according to the KOF Index (2016)?
In 2016, the USA scored higher overall (75.71) than China (60.73) on the KOF Index. The USA ranked higher in social globalisation (79.15 vs. 53.32) and political globalisation (92.19 vs. 84.81). However, both nations had relatively low rankings in economic globalisation, with China scoring 49.97 compared to the USA’s 59.40.
Why might a global superpower not be highly globalised according to indices like KOF?
A global superpower may not rank highly on globalisation indices because these indices measure limited interactions and exchanges rather than comprehensive power or influence. Methodological limitations may also fail to capture broader aspects of global dominance.
What factors contribute to China’s emergence as a potential superpower?
China’s rise is driven by its large population, rapid economic growth, technological advancements, military expansion (e.g., largest active-duty military personnel), and strategic control over regions like the South China Sea. However, challenges such as low GDP per capita and exclusion from key trade agreements hinder its progress.
How does military power differ between the USA and China?
The USA leads in defense spending and advanced technologies like drones and satellites, while China has more active-duty military personnel (over two million) and is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal. Both nations are engaged in territorial disputes, particularly in areas like Taiwan and the South China Sea.
What role does cultural influence play in defining a superpower?
Cultural influence allows a superpower to shape beliefs, values, ideologies, and lifestyles globally through media dominance, international education systems, migration patterns introducing cultural products, and widespread adoption of its language or customs.
What historical context is important for understanding the competition between the USA and the USSR?
The competition between the USA and the USSR during the 20th century was marked by a Cold War that involved a conventional and nuclear arms race, political alliances, and efforts to expand their spheres of influence globally. This rivalry shaped international relations and had lasting impacts on global politics.
What happened to the USSR in 1991, and what was its impact on global power dynamics?
In 1991, the USSR dissolved due to economic stresses, failed foreign interventions, and political upheavals, leading to the establishment of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) with Russia at its head. This event left the USA as the sole global superpower, significantly altering global power dynamics.
What is the significance of the KOF Index scores for understanding superpowers?
The KOF Index scores provide insights into how globalisation affects superpowers. Despite being a global superpower, the USA does not have the highest score on the index, indicating that global influence may not solely depend on levels of globalisation measured by interactions and exchanges.
Why is it important to be informed about current events when discussing global superpowers?
Being informed about current events allows students to provide relevant examples in their analyses of superpowers. Recent developments can illustrate ongoing trends in power dynamics and influence, enhancing understanding and engagement with the topic.
What are some potential future superpowers mentioned in relation to China?
In addition to China, other nations or groupings that may emerge as potential superpowers include India and possibly regional alliances in Africa or South America as they develop economically and politically.
What were the KOF Index 2016 scores for the USA and China, and what do they reveal?
In 2016, the USA had an overall KOF Index score of 75.71 (ranked 31st out of 184 countries), with scores of 59.40 for economic globalisation (ranked 89th), 79.15 for social globalisation (ranked 28th), and 92.19 for political globalisation (ranked 16th). China had an overall score of 60.73 (ranked 73rd), with scores of 49.97 for economic globalisation (ranked 126th), 53.32 for social globalisation (ranked 87th), and 84.81 for political globalisation (ranked 47th). These results suggest that being a global superpower does not necessarily correlate with high levels of globalisation as measured by the KOF Index, possibly due to the methodology or the limited scope of interactions considered by the index.
Why are a strong economy and currency important for superpowers?
A strong economy and currency are essential for the emergence, persistence, and global influence of a superpower. They enable economic dominance, facilitate international trade, and allow for significant foreign investments and reserve currency status.
What are the key demographic and economic indicators for the USA and China (2016)?
In 2016, the USA had a national land area of 9.834 million km² (3rd globally), a population of 0.324 billion (4th), a GDP (PPP) of $18.56 trillion (3rd), and a GDP per capita (PPP) of $57,300 (18th). China had a land area of 9.326 million km² (4th), a population of 1.378 billion (1st), a GDP (PPP) of $21.27 trillion (1st), and a GDP per capita (PPP) of $15,400 (104th).
How do the USA and China compare in terms of trade and FDI?
In 2016, the USA ranked 3rd in export value ($1.47 trillion) and 2nd in import value ($2.21 trillion). It ranked 2nd globally in FDI stock at home ($3.648 trillion) and abroad ($5.556 trillion). China ranked 2nd in export value ($2.01 trillion) and 3rd in import value ($1.44 trillion). It ranked 5th in FDI stock at home ($1.458 trillion) and 11th abroad ($1.285 trillion).
What is GDP adjusted for PPP, and how does it affect comparisons between nations?
GDP adjusted for PPP accounts for differences in national prices, reflecting purchasing power more accurately than raw GDP figures. For example, $10 in the USA buys less than $10 in Tanzania. In PPP-adjusted terms, China overtook the USA as the largest economy globally in 2014.
What is the significance of reserve currencies for superpowers?
A reserve currency is held by governments and institutions for international transactions due to its perceived safety. The US dollar has been the dominant reserve currency since World War II, enabling cheaper borrowing and significant political influence globally.
What has been the dominant currency?
The US dollar accounted for 43.3% of international payments in 2015. It is widely used as a secondary currency globally, including as Ecuador’s official currency since 2000. Its strength allows the USA to import goods more easily but makes exports more expensive.
What are some drawbacks of having a strong reserve currency like the US dollar?
A strong reserve currency makes exports more expensive and imports cheaper, which can negatively impact the balance of trade by increasing reliance on foreign goods.
What was the impact of US sanctions on Cuba during the Cold War?
The USA imposed sanctions on Cuba starting in 1960, including an arms embargo, sugar import reductions, and travel bans. These sanctions were tightened over decades to isolate Cuba politically and economically but began easing under President Obama in 2014.
When did the Chinese yuan become a reserve currency, and what is its significance?
The Chinese yuan became a reserve currency in 2015, accounting for 10.9% of global foreign exchange reserves by that year. Although it ranks fifth among reserve currencies, most transactions involving yuan occur between mainland China and Hong Kong.
How do US and Chinese companies rank among global corporations?
In Fortune’s Global 500 rankings for revenue in 2016, Walmart (USA) ranked first with $482 billion, while State Grid (China) ranked second with $329 billion. The USA had the largest number of companies on the list (134), followed by China with 103.
How have foreign TNCs contributed to economic growth in China?
Foreign TNCs have invested heavily in China’s growing consumer market due to its large population and rising middle class. Companies like McDonald’s, Apple, LG, Hyundai, Toyota, and Mitsubishi have expanded rapidly within China.
What are some key characteristics of China’s ‘go global’ economic strategy since the late 1970s?
China’s ‘go global’ strategy included diversifying agricultural output, encouraging foreign investment, privatising non-strategic industries, fostering entrepreneurship, and increasing international trade through WTO membership since 2001.
What were some domestic achievements from China’s economic reforms?
Between 1978–2013, China achieved annual GDP growth rates of up to 11%, reduced absolute poverty levels despite rising inequality, increased average wages sixfold by 2005, and became the world’s largest economy by PPP-adjusted GDP in 2014.
How has China’s economic growth impacted global commodity markets?
China’s rapid growth drove up commodity prices until around 2011 when its slowdown caused energy prices to drop by up to 70%, metals by 50%, and agricultural commodities by about 35%. This highlights China’s influence on global resource demand.
How has China’s FDI influenced its global economic position?
China has become a major consumer of resources through FDI projects aimed at securing raw materials like rare earth metals and agricultural land abroad. This strategy supports its domestic market while influencing global trade dynamics.
What are some key differences between US and Chinese exports/imports?
The USA primarily exports capital goods like transistors and aircraft while importing consumer goods like automobiles from countries such as China (21% of imports). China exports machinery like data-processing equipment while importing resources like oil from partners such as South Korea (10%).
What trading organisations or agreements are the USA and China members of?
Both countries are members of the WTO and G20. The USA participates in NAFTA with Canada and Mexico while China is part of ACFTA with ASEAN nations. Additionally, China is a founding member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
What is China’s New Silk Road initiative?
The New Silk Road is an infrastructure project sponsored by China to enhance trade routes via land and maritime connections with Europe and Asia. It includes cargo trains running from China to Western Europe as an alternative to air or sea transport.
How do aid contributions differ between China and the USA?
The USA donates large amounts of official development assistance but contributes less than UN guidelines recommend relative to GNI. China’s aid focuses on Asia, Africa, Oceania, Europe, Latin America, regional organisations like the African Union, but remains below UN targets at just 0.06% of GDP.
Define gunboat diplomacy
The pursuit of foreign policy objectives with the aid of conspicuous displays of naval power aimed against the weaker power. Examples are still found today when countries with powerful navies deploy their vessels in conflict zones far from their national territorial waters. In April 2017 the USA deployed several warships (including two aircraft carriers) to the Korean peninsular as tensions grew around North Korea’s missile and nuclear weapons testing.
In the early 1900s US president Theodore Roosevelt espoused a similar if slightly more ‘subtle’ foreign policy philosophy in the phrase ‘speak softly and carry a big stick’.
Define a free trade zone (FTZ)
A designated area (i.e. an airport or seaport) for duty-free imports such as raw materials, parts, sub-assemblies or semi-finished or finished goods. These imports can be put in storage, displayed, assembled or processed for re-export or entry into the general market of the importing country (after paying duties).
Define GDP
Gross domestic product. A measure of national income. A similar measure, the gross national income (GNI), is favoured in some analyses.
Define PPP
Purchasing power parity. Adjusts the actual GDP to take account of national prices which vary from country to country. $10 in the USA will buy far less than $10 in Tanzania.
Define FDI
Foreign direct investment (alternatively ODI, overseas direct investment). Investments made by the government, financial institutions and corporations of one country into the economic sectors of another.
What is the significance of military power for superpowers?
The ability to project military power is a crucial factor in the geopolitical influence of a superpower. While countries like the UK and France have significant geopolitical influence, they lack the extensive military strength characteristic of superpowers like the USA and China.
How do military spending levels compare between the USA and China?
In 2015, the USA spent approximately 4.4% of its GDP on the military, while China spent 2%. This places the USA in 9th position globally for GDP spending and China in 40th position. The world average for military spending as a percentage of GDP is 2%.
What are the active military personnel and equipment statistics for the USA and China?
The USA has 1.4 million active frontline personnel, 13,892 aircraft, 72 submarines, and 8,848 battle tanks. In contrast, China has 2.3 million active personnel, 2,860 aircraft, 67 submarines, and 9,150 battle tanks. This suggests that while China has more personnel and tanks, the USA has superiority in air power.
Why is naval strength important for military influence?
Naval strength is vital for global military influence because it consists of mobile weapons platforms that can be deployed rapidly around the world. The USA has a far larger surface fleet compared to China, which has only recently begun to develop its blue water navy capabilities.
What is gunboat diplomacy? Provide an example of it.
Gunboat diplomacy refers to pursuing foreign policy objectives through displays of naval power against weaker nations. An example includes the USA deploying warships to the Korean peninsula in April 2017 amid rising tensions with North Korea.
How do nuclear arsenals compare between the USA and China?
The USA possesses approximately 6,800 nuclear warheads with advanced delivery systems capable of reaching any target. China has about 260 warheads with intercontinental capabilities but these are reportedly stored rather than deployed. Both nations maintain a ‘no first-use’ policy regarding nuclear weapons.
What has been the historical military influence of the USA?
Since emerging as a superpower in the twentieth century, the USA has been involved in numerous conflicts, regime changes, and peacekeeping missions worldwide. It maintains a vast network of permanent bases and temporary deployments globally.
How many US military personnel were stationed abroad in 2015?
In 2015, over 150,000 US military personnel were stationed in approximately 150 countries worldwide, representing about 11% of total personnel. Only 42 countries hosted permanent US bases.
Where are some significant US troop deployments located?
Significant US troop deployments include Japan (48,828), Central Command Area (44,800), Germany (37,704), South Korea (27,558), and Afghanistan (9,800), among others.
How does China’s military influence compare to that of the USA?
Despite being the world’s third strongest military power, China’s military influence is more restricted than that of the USA. As of now, China has only one overseas military base located in Djibouti.
What strategic importance does Djibouti hold for China?
Djibouti is strategically important due to its location near major shipping routes. China’s naval base there will support operations and includes facilities for weapons storage and maintenance.
What roles do NATO and SCO play in military alliances?
NATO aims to safeguard member security through political cooperation and military means. The SCO focuses on regional peace and security among its members but currently lacks NATO’s expansionist ambitions.
How do US and Chinese contributions to UN peacekeeping differ?
In peacekeeping operations as of 2014, China ranked higher than the USA; while China was involved in multiple missions with significant troop contributions, the USA ranked lower despite being a permanent member of the UN Security Council.
What are some examples of recent Chinese military involvements?
Chinese troops have been present in Balochistan since 2004 due to security concerns over Chinese workers. Additionally, they have participated alongside French forces in Mali since 2012 to combat Islamist terrorism.
What is the significance of China’s naval presence beyond territorial waters?
The Chinese navy has conducted friendly visits globally and maintains a presence in strategic areas like the Indian Ocean. It also defends territorial claims in regions such as the South China Sea.
Define geopolitical
Refers to the politics of international relationships. Geopolitical relationships include the formal political arrangements entered into freely between nations or groups of nations that govern international political relationships.
Define ratified treaty
A ratified treaty is one which has been enforced and made active by the country that has signed the treaty.
What is the structure of the UN Security Council?
The UN Security Council consists of five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the UK, and the USA) and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. The council is responsible for maintaining peace and security through binding resolutions and peacekeeping forces.
What power do permanent members of the UN Security Council have?
Permanent members can veto resolutions they disagree with, which prevents the resolution from passing. This power allows them to exert significant political influence within the council.
How often does the UN Security Council pass resolutions?
The UN Security Council passes an average of 30 resolutions each year, reflecting agreements among its members.
How has China historically voted on UN resolutions?
Since joining the UN in 1971, China typically opposed or abstained from votes on military conflicts and human rights issues, reflecting its non-interventionist stance. However, it voted in favor of resolution 1411 in 2002 regarding Iraq.
How frequently has China used its veto power in the UN?
China has exercised its veto power infrequently but has used it to block resolutions concerning Syria, Guatemala, Zimbabwe, Myanmar, and others, including two instances related to the Middle East in 2016 and 2017.
How many times has the USA used its veto in the UN Security Council?
As of 2014, the USA had used its veto power 61 times, including 30 times to block resolutions related to the Middle East.
What international environmental agreements has China signed?
China has signed treaties addressing issues like Antarctic conservation, biodiversity, climate change, and pollution. It ratified the Paris Agreement on climate change in November 2016.
What is notable about the USA’s participation in international environmental agreements?
The USA has signed treaties on various environmental issues but has many signed but not ratified agreements. It announced its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in June 2017 after signing it.
How many international organizations is the USA involved with?
The USA is a full member or observer in 87 international organizations and maintains formal diplomatic relationships with most of the 193 states recognized by the UN.
What is China’s involvement in international organizations?
China is a full member or observer in 75 international organizations and formally recognizes all UN member states except for 21 that recognize Taiwan instead.
What are some initiatives from China’s Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC)?
FOCAC initiatives include establishing a development fund, providing loans to African nations, debt cancellation for poorer states, building clean energy power plants, training healthcare professionals, and constructing schools.
What is “panda diplomacy”?
Panda diplomacy refers to China’s use of giant pandas as diplomatic gifts to strengthen international relationships. This practice began in earnest after President Nixon’s visit to China in 1972 and has evolved over time into a model involving financial transactions and mutual resource exchanges.
What is the paradox concerning Chinese culture’s influence?
The paradox lies in the fact that while Chinese culture is widespread and familiar globally, many Chinese brands remain unknown to Western consumers. Traditional aspects like Chinese food and martial arts are well-recognized, yet modern Chinese brands struggle for recognition.
How has the Chinese diaspora contributed to cultural influence?
The Chinese diaspora has led to the establishment of Chinese enclaves worldwide, making elements of Chinese culture, such as cuisine and martial arts, familiar to many. However, these adaptations may not reflect authentic Chinese practices as recognized in China.
Which Chinese brands have achieved global recognition?
Brands like Huawei, Lenovo, Oppo, Vivo, and ZTE have gained global recognition. Huawei accounted for 40% of global smartphone sales in 2015 and has engaged in sports sponsorships to enhance its visibility.
Why do traditional cultural elements like food and martial arts have more recognition than modern brands?
Traditional cultural elements have been maintained by migrants and accepted by other cultures over time, while modern brands are often associated with popular culture that has been historically dominated by Western influences.
How is China’s cultural influence expanding in Africa?
Over 800 Chinese companies operate in Africa, spreading business practices. Additionally, China has established 20 Confucius Institute centers across 13 African countries to promote Mandarin and Chinese culture.
What are some initiatives taken by the Chinese government to promote Mandarin globally?
The Chinese government has promoted Mandarin through Confucius Institutes and sent language instructors to various countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, and Argentina.
What is the expected economic projection for China by 2030?
By 2030, China’s economy is expected to be double that of the USA’s economy. Despite this growth, China’s soft power projection remains limited due to various complex factors.
What challenges do Chinese brands face in gaining international recognition?
Chinese brands encounter strong local competition and cultural conservatism that favors familiar local products. Nearly half of consumer goods spending goes on local or regional brands.
How does the legacy of Western imperialism impact the spread of Chinese culture?
The historical spread of English through British colonialism and the dominance of US media have created a foundation for Western cultural imperialism, making it challenging for Chinese culture to gain similar traction globally.
What role do Confucius Institutes play in promoting Chinese culture?
Confucius Institutes aim to spread understanding of Chinese culture and teach Mandarin worldwide. They serve as platforms for cultural exchange and have trained millions of students since their inception.
How much did China invest in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and what was its purpose?
China invested a record $42 billion in the 2008 Beijing Olympics to promote itself as a welcoming country with different values from the West while showcasing its cultural identity despite human rights criticisms.
How does China engage with its overseas diaspora?
China seeks to strengthen relationships with its overseas populations through meetings, conferences, and summer camps for children, recognizing their role as tools of influence for promoting Chinese heritage.
What are some forms of Chinese mass media accessible globally?
Chinese mass media includes overseas editions of newspapers like People’s Daily and China Daily, online news services like Xinhua, and CCTV, which broadcasts in multiple languages including English and Spanish.
How has China’s film industry evolved since the late 20th century?
fter years of strict government control over content, China’s film industry began importing foreign films in the mid-1990s. Today it allows an annual quota of American films and aims to increase its influence in Hollywood through collaborations.
What is “panda diplomacy”?
Panda diplomacy involves using giant pandas as diplomatic gifts to strengthen international relationships. This practice began in earnest after President Nixon’s visit to China in 1972 and continues today as a symbol of soft power.
What are some key aspects of China’s strategy for becoming a global superpower?
China’s strategy includes promoting soft power through cultural diplomacy via Confucius Institutes, enhancing economic ties through investment in developing regions like Africa, and projecting a positive image internationally through events like the Olympics.
What is the process of Americanization, and how is it perceived globally?
Americanization refers to the widespread influence of American culture, which has faced criticism and backlash. While some argue that its progress has stagnated or declined, American culture remains appealing and recognizable globally, unlike contemporary Chinese cultural influences.
Why is measuring cultural influence considered challenging?
There are no direct indices for measuring cultural influence, making it a nebulous concept. Proxy measurements, such as global sales of cultural products, can be used, but they must be interpreted with caution.
What comprises the US mass media and entertainment (M&E) industry?
The US M&E industry is the largest globally and includes TV programs, motion pictures, music, radio broadcasts, print media, and video games. Much of this content is increasingly accessed online.
How dominant is Hollywood in the global cinema market?
Hollywood accounts for over 80% of the global cinema market. In 2016, the highest-grossing film was “Captain America: Civil War,” which earned over $1.5 billion worldwide, highlighting US cultural dominance in movies.
What challenges do non-US films face in the global market?
Non-US films struggle to achieve similar recognition as American films. For example, “The Monkey King 2,” a Hong Kong production, ranked only at number 42 in global earnings in 2016.
How does American television reach global audiences?
American TV shows are broadcast worldwide through local networks or international branches of US channels. Streaming services allow direct access to American programming in many countries.
What were the most popular TV programs globally in 2016?
The most demanded TV programs included “Game of Thrones” (7.2 million daily demand expressions), “The Walking Dead” (4.7 million), and “Pretty Little Liars” (3.8 million), showcasing the dominant position of US television.
How does American sports culture compare to global sports?
While American sports like baseball and basketball have some international appeal, they do not match the global reach of soccer (association football). The NFL Super Bowl has a worldwide audience but still pales in comparison to events like the FIFA World Cup Final.
What are some top American brands recognized globally?
The top ten most recognized global brands include Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Apple, Google, Disney, Snapchat, Amazon, and Netflix. These brands reflect significant cultural influence and recognition worldwide.
How does Subway exemplify American fast food’s global presence?
Subway has approximately 33,679 restaurants in 93 countries and is one of the fastest-growing fast food chains globally. It offers a uniform dining experience similar to other American fast food brands like McDonald’s.
What role does Apple play in global consumer culture?
Apple is known for its premium products and has a devoted customer base worldwide. As of 2016, it operated 450 retail stores across over 20 countries and significantly influences technology trends.
What criticisms has Nike faced despite its global popularity?
Nike has been criticized for alleged child labor practices and poor working conditions in overseas factories. Nevertheless, it remains a leading brand in sports apparel with over 700 retail stores outside the USA.
How has American business culture influenced global practices?
American business culture emphasizes profit maximization and performance-based rewards. These principles have been adopted by companies worldwide but are met with resistance in some cultures that prioritize employee welfare.
How does the spread of English impact American cultural influence?
The English language’s dominance due to Western imperialism facilitates the spread of American culture through media and communication. Over a billion people speak English as a second language or have learned it as a foreign language.
What was the significance of the 2008 Beijing Olympics for China’s cultural projection?
China invested $42 billion in the Beijing Olympics to showcase itself as a welcoming nation with distinct values from the West while promoting its cultural identity on a global stage despite human rights criticisms.
Define IGO
Either intergovernmental organisation or international governmental organization. In an IGO at least two nations come together to form an entity (the ‘group’) for the purpose of working together in areas of common interest.
An IGO that requires nation states to sign and ratify a treaty of membership has a legal existence. Such IGOs are subject to international law and member states are bound by legally enforceable agreements. Member states must obey the rules and regulations of the organisation. Examples include NATO, the UN and the EU.
An IGO that consists of a group of member states not bound by a treaty has no legal status. Member states are under no legal obligation to comply with decisions made by the IGO. Examples include the ‘G’ groupings and Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). In the past OPEC has had difficulty enforcing agreements over oil production quotas as member states are free to produce as much oil as they can or wish, regardless of any internal agreements.
In theory a legally established IGO should be more powerful and have a greater global influence as its members are bound to act together, en masse. A bloc of countries, especially powerful ones, have more global ‘clout’ than individual nations.
Define MGO
In the context of international organizations MGO stands for multi-governmental organisation. It is an alternative term for an IGO with at least three members.
What is an IGO?
An IGO (intergovernmental organization) is an entity formed by at least two nations to work together on areas of common interest. IGOs can be legally binding (e.g., UN, NATO) or non-binding (e.g., G7, OPEC).
What is the G7 and who are its members?
The G7 is a group of leading industrialized nations. Current members are the USA, Canada, UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Japan. The EU is also represented but not a full member.
What percentage of global GDP does the G7 account for?
The G7 accounts for 31% of global GDP (PPP) and 63% of global national wealth.
What are some criticisms of the G7?
Criticisms include lack of representation of emerging economies like China, India, and Brazil, declining share of world GDP, and perceived inability to act on global issues like HIV/AIDS and climate change.
What is the G20 and when was it established?
The G20 was established in 1999 as a forum for advanced and emerging economies to promote global financial stability through international cooperation.
What percentage of global GDP and world trade does the G20 represent?
The G20 represents 80% of global GDP (PPP) and 75% of total world trade volume.
What is a major achievement of the G20?
The G20 is credited with preventing the 2007-2008 global economic crisis from spreading further by promoting policies like reducing interest rates and increasing money supplies.
What is the OECD and what is its mission?
The OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) is an international economic research and discussion organization. Its mission is to promote policies that improve economic and social well-being worldwide.
How many members does the OECD have and what percentage of global GDP do they represent?
The OECD has 35 member countries, representing 59% of global GDP (PPP).
What are some of the OECD’s main aims for the 21st century?
The OECD’s aims include restoring confidence in the free market economy, ensuring tighter control of public finances, fostering new sources of growth, developing skills for future jobs, and achieving sustainable development without reliance on aid.
How has the G20’s agenda evolved in recent years?
Recent G20 summits have expanded beyond economic issues to include discussions on sustainable agriculture, green growth, social welfare, migration, refugees, climate change, and employment for diverse groups including women, youth, older people, and those with disabilities.
What criticism has the G20 faced regarding representation?
The G20 has been criticized for its exclusive membership. Norway, a major economy and significant UN contributor, is not represented. Africa and Central Asia are underrepresented, and some EU states desire direct representation rather than through the EU.
How has the G20 responded to criticisms about exclusivity?
The G20 has invited over 30 countries to observe its summits and has 11 international organizations as permanent invitees, including the African Union, APEC, ASEAN, OECD, UN, World Bank, and WTO
What was the context for establishing the G20?
The G20 was established in 1999 following the financial crises of the 1990s, aiming to promote global financial stability through international cooperation and modernization of international economic structures.
How did the G20 respond to the 2007-2008 global economic crisis?
The G20 is credited with preventing the crisis from worsening by promoting policies such as reducing interest rates, increasing money supplies (quantitative easing), and preventing a return to protectionist economic policies.
Define primary energy
The amount of energy available in the energy source before it is converted or transformed into another form of energy such as electricity.
Define mtoe
Milions of tonnes of oil equivalent. Mtoe is used as a standard measure to compare different energy sources. For example in 1994–2014 the amount of energy provided by nuclear power was equivalent to what could have been produced by about 5 million tonnes of oil.
What is an energy policy?
An energy policy is a national strategy put in place by a government to ensure that a country’s future energy requirements are met. It aims to achieve energy security.
What is the energy mix?
The energy mix refers to the variety of energy sources used by a country as a result of its energy policy. Energy mixes vary between countries and change over time.
What percentage of global oil production did OPEC control in the 1970s?
OPEC controlled 40% of the world’s oil production and 50% of all oil available for export in the 1970s.
What event triggered the 1973 oil crisis?
On October 16, 1973, OAPEC (a group within OPEC) increased oil prices from $3 to $5 per barrel, reduced production, and embargoed supplies to certain Western countries.
How did the 1973 oil crisis affect US energy policy?
It led to the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 and the creation of the US Department of Energy in 1977. The US also increased domestic oil production and sought alternative energy sources.
How did European countries respond to the 1973 oil crisis?
European countries accelerated North Sea oil and gas developments, introduced energy-saving measures, and began looking for alternative energy suppliers beyond the Middle East.
What is the International Energy Agency (IEA) and why was it established?
The IEA was established in 1974 as a result of the 1973 oil crisis. It aims to ensure member states maintain oil stocks equivalent to at least 90 days of the previous year’s net imports.
How did Brazil respond to the 1973 oil crisis?
Brazil launched its Programa Nacional do Álcool in 1975, reinvigorating its biofuel program to produce ethanol from sugar cane as an alternative to imported oil.
What factors led to OPEC losing control of the oil market from 1980?
Factors included OPEC infighting over quotas, overproduction causing a price crash, changing energy mix in response to 1970s price rises, and the 1997 Asian financial crisis.
How has OPEC’s influence on global energy policies changed since the 1970s?
While OPEC’s direct influence has decreased, the concept of energy security it sparked remains embedded in many countries’ policies. However, economic considerations and new technologies like fracking now play a larger role in shaping energy policies.
What percentage of petroleum is used for non-fuel purposes?
Approximately 12% of all petroleum produced is destined for the non-fuel petrochemical industry.
How has oil’s role in electricity generation changed since 1973?
Oil’s contribution to electricity generation has decreased significantly. In 1973, it accounted for 22% of electricity production, but now its contribution varies greatly in national energy mixes (e.g., 9% in Japan and 0.7% in the USA).
What advantages does oil have over coal and natural gas?
Compared to coal, oil has a higher energy content, is cleaner, and easier to transport. Compared to natural gas, oil has advantages in the transport sector and has established infrastructure and economies built around its use.
When was OPEC founded and who were its founding members?
OPEC was founded in 1960 by Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela.
What was the Tehran Agreement of 1971?
The Tehran Agreement was when OPEC forced 22 oil companies to accept a 55% tax on profits or face a total embargo, marking OPEC’s growing dominance in the oil industry.
What caused the 1973 oil crisis?
On October 16, 1973, OAPEC (a group within OPEC) increased oil prices from $3 to $5 per barrel, reduced production, and embargoed supplies to specific Western countries, triggering a global supply reduction and market panic.
How did the 1973 oil crisis affect developing nations?
Developing nations suffered significantly as their development plans were based on cheap oil. As oil prices increased and the USA raised interest rates, a global recession hit, reducing demand for exports from poor nations and contributing to the world debt crisis.
What is the concept of inelasticity of demand in relation to oil?
Inelasticity of demand for oil means that demand does not significantly change even when there are price changes, as demonstrated during the 1970s oil crisis when consumption remained high despite price increases.
What factors led to OPEC losing control of the oil market from 1980?
Factors included OPEC infighting over quotas, overproduction causing a price glut, changing energy mix, responses to 1970s price rises impacting demand, and the 1997 Asian financial crisis.
What was Brazil’s response to the 1973 oil crisis?
Brazil launched its Programa Nacional do Álcool in 1975, reinvigorating its biofuel program to produce ethanol from sugar cane as an alternative to imported oil, an example of import substitution.
What is the purpose of intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) that lend money?
IGOs exist to lend money or extend credit facilities to national governments for various purposes, including economic stability, development projects, and crisis management.
What is the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and when was it established?
The IMF was established in 1945 with 29 member countries to help reconstruct the global economy following the Great Depression and World War II. Its goal was to prevent economic crises similar to those that led to the Great Depression.
What were the original stated aims of the IMF?
The original aims of the IMF were to promote international monetary cooperation, facilitate balanced growth of international trade, promote exchange rate stability, assist in establishing a multilateral payments system, and make resources available to members experiencing balance of payments difficulties.
How has the IMF’s role evolved since its formation?
Over the decades, the IMF has increasingly worked with low-income countries (LICs), providing an alternative source of funding for nations with limited access to private capital. It also lends to wealthier nations facing financial difficulties, such as Greece and Portugal during the Eurozone crisis.
How many members does the IMF currently have, and where is its headquarters?
The IMF has 189 members who provide funds for its operations and governance. Its headquarters are located in Washington, D.C.
What is the surveillance role of the IMF?
The IMF monitors member policies and issues warnings about risks to economic stability. It also offers capacity development, technical assistance, and training to help member states implement effective economic policies.
