The State of Discord

The debate between Thomas Friedman and Robert Kaplan can throw light on various aspects of globalization, especially its effects on individuals and societies. In particular, one should focus on the role of different states and governments or the factors that increase the integration of different markets, technologies, and finance.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The State of Discord specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Moreover, the authors pay attention to such an issue as personal rights and freedoms in the globalized world. These are the main questions that should be discussed more closely. On the whole, this debate is both interesting and thought-provoking because it can enable readers to understand how different communities can evolve in the environment when people from countries can easily interact with one another. Certainly, one cannot tell that the arguments of Thomas Friedman and Robert Kaplan are always su bstantiated with empirical data. This is one of the limitations that should be taken into account. However, this shortcoming does not undermine the value of this discussion since Thomas Friedman and Robert Kaplan illustrate different pathways of globalization. First of all, Thomas Friedman is quite right in pointing out that the process of globalization is driven by the development of technologies, rather than political changes within various communities. For instance, information and communication technologies make the world more interconnected. They create many opportunities for entrepreneurs. Therefore, one should not suppose that the efforts of different states can stop the process of the integration of markets. Such efforts are not likely to be effective because modern people can communicate with one another through a great number of channels. This is one of the main arguments that can be put forward. It seems that this comment is important for understanding the reasons why eco nomic and cultural relations between various countries intensify. Still, one should not forget about availability of natural resources, since this factor affects the patterns of immigration. The availability of natural resources is vital for explaining the origins of conflicts between states. It is possible to argue that the scholars underline the complexities of globalization. This is one of the details that can be important for understanding the changes in the international relations. One of the central questions examined by Thomas Friedman and Robert Kaplan is the role of governments in the world in which the borders become more blurred. On the one hand, the process of globalization is possible when the government decreases its interference into the lives of citizens. Furthermore, this institution does not erect any barriers for businesses.Advertising Looking for essay on international relations? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn Mo re So, one can say that the role of the state can weaken However, the authors also note that under such circumstances, countries are exposed to a great number of economic or ecological risks. Thus, the skills of policy-makers and legislators can profoundly shape the long-term development of a country. They should make sure that a country can derive benefits from new trade agreements or technological innovations. Therefore, one should not disregard the role of governmental institutions. This discussion is important for showing that it is difficult to predict the role of the state in the globalized world of the future. This is one of the main issues that can be singled out. In my view, this question is relevant to modern political leaders who have to safeguard their countries against various threats. Apart from that, it is critical to focus on the impacts of globalization on the identities of individuals. Both authors argue that it is not possible to disregard a person’s atta chment toward a certain region, country, or city. This situation can be observed in various parts of the European Union. For instance, one can mention the development of the nationalist movement in the modern Catalonia. Moreover, one should not suppose that people lose their attachment to the customs, values, or traditions which are familiar to them since childhood. In my opinion, the scholars explain people’s resistance to complete eradication of borders and the domination of only one culture. To a great extent, the scholars show the integration of cultures and regional identities of people can co-exist. Additionally, researchers identify some important risks associated with globalization. For instance, Robert Kaplan notes that the economic development within a country results in political instability. In many cases, one can speak about the change of political regime and open violence that are usually preceded by transformation of the society. This is one of the most importa nt claims that Robert Kaplan makes. In particular, one should focus on countries as Egypt or Libya. Yet, the development of a state is dependent on the political culture of a country and its historical legacy. These questions are of great interest to Robert Kaplan and Thomas Friedman. On the whole, one can say that this issue should be taken into account by the readers, especially if they take interest in political science or geopolitics. Admittedly, one cannot say that the globalization is process that can be easily analyzed or predicted with the help of existing methods. However, it is possible to single out some patterns of its development in the future.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The State of Discord specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Another important question that should be discussed is the protection of civic and human rights. The scholars agree the process of globalization increases the role played by middle classes. This layer of the population can limit the authority of the state and its ability to infringe upon the rights of citizens. Robert Kaplan and Thomas Friedman can show how communities may evolve in the future. Certainly, this debate does not contain the reference to any empirical data or models which can explain how societies can adjust to the process of globalization. Therefore, one should not suppose that the predictions made by these scholars will necessarily come true. However, these authors examine hypothetical scenarios that can eventually unfold in various states that can be both advanced and developing economies. This is why their discussion should not be overlooked by readers. Furthermore, this debate can be used by policy-makers who have to reduce the risks of globalization. On the whole, Thomas Friedman and Robert Kaplan can give readers a better idea about different implications of globalization. The scholars do not debate one particular point or thesis st atement. Instead, they attempt to gain a better understanding of this economic, political, and cultural process which affects many people and organizations. It seems that this approach is very productive. The reading can show how various societies can influenced by the integration of various markets and the blurring of national borders. The debate between Thomas Friedman and Robert Kaplan can be used as a starting point for the study of globalization. These are the main issues that can be singled out. This essay on The State of Discord was written and submitted by user Elvis Hayes to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.