In this portfolio, you will chose an article on the age of globalization and read it objectively. You will first summarize the article and then try to identify whether the author had a certain perspective or bias when writing it. After reading the article, you will try to identify what stories are missing from it. Who has been left out of this telling of history? For your next activity, you will have the chance to look for primary sources from the age of globalization. You will analyze them to see if they are valid, reliable, and credible.

Answer 1

Summary of the Article

[Title of Article] (Assuming a hypothetical title for the purpose of the exercise)

The article discusses the transformative impact of globalization in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It highlights key elements such as the rise of international trade, technological advancements, and the cultural exchanges that have emerged as a consequence of these developments. The author contextualizes globalization within historical events, tracing its roots back to earlier forms of trade and exploration, and emphasizes how modern globalization has accelerated interdependence among nations. The narrative also covers both the positive effects—such as economic growth and increased access to goods and services—and negative consequences, including economic disparity and the erosion of local cultures.

Author's Perspective or Bias

Upon analyzing the article, it seems the author possesses a somewhat optimistic perspective of globalization. While acknowledging its drawbacks, such as environmental degradation and social inequalities, the emphasis on globalization’s benefits suggests a bias toward a more favorable view of its overall impact. The use of specific examples, statistical data, and success stories tends to overshadow the challenges faced by marginalized communities and those adversely affected by globalization.

Missing Stories

Several important stories appear to be missing from this article:

1. Voices of the Marginalized: The experiences of communities and individuals who have borne the brunt of globalization—such as workers in developing countries who face exploitation and labor abuses—are not prominently featured.

2. Environmental Concerns: While the article acknowledges some negative consequences, it may underrepresent the extent of environmental degradation and climate change caused by unfettered globalization, particularly in developing nations.

3. Cultural Impacts: The nuanced narratives of how local cultures have resisted or adapted to global influences are minimally discussed. It would benefit from examples of cultural preservation and hybridization that push back against uniform globalization.

4. Political Consequences: The article likely misses the political upheavals that have arisen in response to globalization, including anti-globalization movements, the rise of nationalism, and the backlash against free trade agreements.

5. Historical Context: A deeper historical understanding of colonialism and its legacy would offer an essential background to the current state of globalization. Authoritarian regimes’ role in shaping trade and their economic policies could further illuminate the complexities of globalization.

Primary Source Analysis

In the upcoming activity, you will gather primary sources from the age of globalization, which may include documents such as trade agreements, speeches by influential leaders, and firsthand accounts from individuals affected by globalization. When analyzing these sources, consider the following criteria to determine their validity, reliability, and credibility:

1. Origin: Who created the source, and what is their background? Understanding the creator’s perspective can shed light on potential biases.

2. Context: In what historical and social context was the source produced? Context can greatly influence the content and perspective of the source.

3. Purpose: What was the intention behind the creation of the source? Was it meant to inform, persuade, or serve another purpose?

4. Audience: Who was the intended audience, and how might that shape the message?

5. Content: Analyze the ideas presented within the source. Are they supported with evidence? Are there any notable omissions?

By critically engaging with both secondary articles and primary sources, you will gain a more comprehensive understanding of globalization's multifaceted impacts and the diverse narratives that shape its history.