S/S/10. How Useful a Concept is 'Globalisation' for Understanding Contemporary Societies?

This essay explores the often-used but rarely agreed-upon term 'Globalisation' to see what it can tell us about contemporary societies. The essay addresses this task by comparing the term with other concepts which it argues are often more helpful and informative. The essay also explores issues such as: the existence of international organisations including the United Nations; culture; the standardisation of products and the spread of the influence of multinational corporations. The discussion shows how Globalisation is often used too generally and is potentially misleading, although in specific areas such as global business its use might be appropriate.