Global Issues >> Globalization


Globalization

Globalization in General
Overall, Americans tend to see globalization as somewhat more positive than negative and appear to be growing more familiar with the concept and more positive about it. A large majority favors moving with the process of globalization and only a small minority favors resisting it. Americans view globalization as a process of the world becoming increasingly interconnected. It is seen not only as an economic process, but also as one in which values are becoming more oriented to a global context and international institutions are playing a more central role.

See also International Trade

Globalization of Values
In a variety of ways, Americans show that their values are oriented to a global context and are not limited to a narrow concept of national interest. They show nearly the same level of concern for suffering inside and outside the US.

Human Rights in General
Promoting International Human Rights
Human Rights and the UN System

  • Abiding By US Labor Laws When Operating Outside US
    Overwhelming majorities feel US companies operating outside the US should be expected to abide by US laws on working conditions, even though they recognize this would likely lead to higher prices.

  • Abiding By US Environmental Laws When Operating Outside US
    Overwhelming majorities feel US companies operating outside the US should be expected to abide by US laws on the environment, even though they recognize this would likely lead to higher prices.

  • Trading With Poor Countries
    Most Americans perceive that poor countries do not get a net benefit from international trade, and support giving poor countries preferential trade treatment. A strong majority supports lowering trade barriers with poor countries on a reciprocal basis.

International Cooperation on Global Problems
To address global problems, a very strong majority supports increased international cooperation. Support is strong for international institutions dealing with global problems like terrorism, the environment, and human rights issues. Only a small minority prefers to see the US tackle these problems on its own.

  • International Intervention in the Internal Affairs of States
    To address global problems, a strong majority supports international intervention in the internal affairs of countries to deal with terrorism, environmental issues, and especially when atrocities are being committed or civilians are suffering as a result of war.


  • International Environmental Agreements
    A strong majority thinks there should be international agreements on environmental standards, and that the US should abide by them. When given arguments for and against making more international agreements on the environment, a strong majority finds arguments in favor to be convincing, while a majority rejects arguments against the idea as unconvincing.

The Spread of American Popular Culture
Americans show awareness that American popular culture is having a major impact on the world, but the majority does not show any desire to spread American culture. Americans show modest enthusiasm for American popular culture, but most reject the idea that it poses a threat to other cultures. The spread of American culture is not seen as a major cause for terrorism.