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This is a major civilisation topic at BAC Terminale level. Globalisation defined : the process by which the world becomes increasingly interconnected through trade, technology, culture, and migration. Economic globalisation : multinational corporations, free trade, the WTO, outsourcing. Cultural globalisation : spread of Western culture (Hollywood, fast food, social media), homogenisation vs cultural hybridisation. Digital globalisation : the internet as driver of globalisation, social media, e-commerce. Migration and diaspora : people moving for work, safety, education — forming diasporic communities. Identity in a globalised world : global citizenship vs national identity, cultural hybridity, code-switching (moving between cultures). Africa and globalisation : resource extraction, brain drain, digital leap, growing middle class, cultural exports (music, film, fashion). Key vocabulary : interdependence, cultural imperialism, hybridity, diaspora, brain drain, soft power, glocalization.
Exercise 1 : Answer in developed paragraphs.
1. What are the main benefits of globalisation for African countries?
2. How can globalisation threaten local cultures?
3. What is 'glocalization' and give an example.
Exercise 2 : Write a discursive essay (250 words) on:
'Globalisation is making the world richer but less diverse. Discuss.'
What is cultural imperialism?
Correction
Cultural imperialism is the dominance of one culture over others through economic or political power. Western (especially American) culture — through Hollywood films, music, fast food, fashion — spreads globally and may marginalise local cultures. This leads to cultural homogenisation: the world becoming culturally similar. Critics argue it destroys diversity; others argue it creates hybrid cultures.
What is glocalization?
Correction
Glocalization is the adaptation of global products or ideas to fit local cultures. Example: McDonald's serves the McAfrica burger in some African countries; global music companies sign African artists who blend local rhythms with international pop. It shows that globalisation is not purely a one-way imposition — local cultures actively shape and adapt global influences.
What is the brain drain and how does it affect developing countries?
Correction
Brain drain is the emigration of highly educated and skilled professionals (doctors, engineers, researchers) from developing to developed countries. For Africa, it means losing trained talent to Europe and North America. Consequences: shortage of healthcare workers and teachers, reduced innovation capacity, dependence on foreign expertise. Remittances (money sent home) partially offset the loss.