Matthew Dolan
Module 3 Optional Essay
Globalization and International Terrorism
From the McWorld to the growing economic landscape in what were previously thought
to be developing countries, globalization, and a more open global perspective is needed to keep
with a developing society. Globalization is driving a worldwide market that has heavy influence
on all aspects of life, especially for Americans, other than that of just economic or financial state
of our country. Socialization, political policy, and foreign relations are all effected by global
diversity. This was prevalent in the reading of Martin’s Globalization and International
Terrorism. As the world changes around us people are more sensitive and exposed to the
dangers of terroristic threats.
From the attacks of 911 came a call to arms, internationally united arms that would fight
at every cost to bring to justice any and all acts of violence against our country and our allied
nations. The author describes in the introduction that due to globalization socially and
economically, terror threats may become more prevalent and heinous. With international
networking being at its high, terrorists are able to expose their actions and demands with greater
intensity. Graphic imagery, video, statements etcetera are able to be accessed by people
worldwide, possibly garnering more attention and incentive for violent groups to act out. These
groups are identified as the “fresh breed” by the author, citing globalization for their derivation.
The author describes the minor differences between both globalized terror and
international/contemporary terror. These “new terrorists” have much more influence over a
global network, using new technologies and easy accessibility to information to transform our
conception of terrorism. The author references other colleagues, Barber and Huntington, who
discuss how our globalization may in turn be providing for more terrorism or threats to violence.
Fault lines are a key component of this. The authors discuss how problems, whether political,
religious etcetera, that previously may have been dealt with amongst a small group, may not be
exposing and luring conflict amongst the masses. Obviously the 911 attacks have created some
dispute between the West and Islamic nations. Mass media and technology may be
unintentionally fueling the fire through advances in our networking.
As we globalize our American markets we have seen the trend of moving companies
around the globe for numerous reasons most commonly because it is cost efficient. As the essay
states, we are imposing our culture and view of economic markets upon those who may be
ignorant to or opposed to our western lifestyle. I think most sensible people would agree that
marketing globally comes with a price. People are forced to bring their cultures and values to
strangers who may not always be welcoming. In many foreign countries westerners are often
stereotyped or hated because of “American” imagery and impression. Again opening ourselves
up to more global markets could infuse some hate or disdain from foreign sources who may
never had associated with us had it not been for globalization.
Asymmetrical methods of terror are the forefront of new terrorist procedures. Through
media, such as CNN and AL Jazeera, and internet capabilities, groups are able to access “far
corners” of the globe previously unimaginable. The essay discusses various terror attacks that
have been linked to groups around the global. Terror agencies are able to communicate to an
isolated man in NYC and offer procedures on how to make and detonate bombs. These people
seemingly working together may have never even met, and still influence can take over and lead
to violence against fellow citizen. Some terror groups have even been stated to utilize the media
to gain infamy or support. Bin Laden was said to have sent media to these outlets full knowing
that they would be aired to millions around the globe. Personally I feel no one could deny that
this is exactly what he wanted. At the same time can I blame the media for not reporting on
terror news? These are tough questions, questions brought about by global expansion.
Martin and the authors he references have glaring points that need to be addressed. The
problem is I am not sure there are any real answers other than the fact that we need to be more
ready and prepared for threats against our country and allies. Global economic expansion is not
slowing down. Twitter, Facebook, CNN, Al Jazeera, and all other social and news outlets are
surely only gaining steam. Business relocation for increase revenue and productivity will not
slow. Companies do not want to hear that relocating and tripling their profits may be a small
threat to American safety. Just as we must adapt to social and political change we must also find
appropriate ways to deal with this “New Terrorism”.