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1 Dec 2025

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Understanding Globalisation: Causes and Recent Acceleration

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Maisie Wood @alevel.revisionnotes

Globalisation is basically the world becoming more connected through trade, technology, and culture. It's why you can buy... Show more

dependence of 2 or more
countries on eachether.
Globalisation is the increasing interconnectivity between countries and people through techn

Understanding Globalisation and Trade Blocs

Think of globalisation as the world's biggest networking event that never ends. Globalisation means countries depend on each other more than ever before through four main types economic (trading goods), political (forming alliances like the UN), environmental (sharing similar rules), and cultural (spreading ideas and values).

Trade blocs are like exclusive clubs where countries team up to trade without taxes between members. The EU has 28 countries where you can travel freely and buy cheaper goods, whilst ASEAN (10 Southeast Asian countries) has boosted foreign investment from 117.7billionto117.7 billion to 136.2 billion in just one year.

Three major organisations control global economics the World Trade Organisation (WTO) removes trade barriers, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) lends money but forces countries to privatise assets, and the World Bank finances development using deposits from wealthy nations.

Quick Tip Remember that these organisations are run by developed countries, so they often favour their own interests over developing nations.

The free trade vs protectionism debate is crucial for your exams. Free trade supporters argue it's cheaper and lets countries specialise, whilst protectionists use tariffs (import taxes), quotas (import limits), and subsidies (government financial help) to protect local jobs and prevent exploitation.

dependence of 2 or more
countries on eachether.
Globalisation is the increasing interconnectivity between countries and people through techn

Acceleration and Global Connections

Transnational Corporations (TNCs) are the real architects of globalisation - they're companies operating in multiple countries to maximise profits. They've revolutionised how we connect through cheaper transport (containerisation), faster communication (satellites and fibre optics), and global investment opportunities.

Some countries are completely "switched on" to globalisation because they offer fast internet, international trade hubs, low taxes, excellent transport infrastructure, and cheap labour. Think of China's Special Economic Zones or Las Vegas as a tourist magnet.

Meanwhile, other nations remain "switched off" due to poor geographical location (being landlocked like Zimbabwe), political instability, high crime rates, corruption, and weak infrastructure. North Korea is the ultimate example - they follow a self-sufficiency policy, ban foreign tourism, and restrict internet access.

Remember Large parts of Africa are bypassed by globalisation despite having valuable resources like diamonds, mainly due to political and infrastructure problems.

The key factors accelerating globalisation include economic liberalisation (relaxing laws for foreign companies), financial deregulation (fewer controls on currencies), improved transport technology, and international organisations promoting free trade.

dependence of 2 or more
countries on eachether.
Globalisation is the increasing interconnectivity between countries and people through techn

Economic Flows and Global Networks

The modern world runs on global flows - the movement of people, money, goods, and ideas across borders. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is massive money flowing between countries, with the USA receiving the most inflows whilst Japan, USA, China, and Germany have the highest outflows.

TNCs drive globalisation through outsourcing (hiring other companies for services) and offshoring (moving production to cheaper countries). Apple manufacturing in China is a perfect example - it creates jobs and introduces new technology but can destroy local businesses.

The benefits of TNCs include employment opportunities, increased exports, technology transfer, and the positive multiplier effect that boosts entire economies. However, they also cause local business closures and can make countries too dependent on foreign investment.

Trade blocs create economic benefits like free internal trade, lower import costs, and support for weaker member countries. But they freeze out non-members and protect businesses from potentially cheaper competition outside the bloc.

Exam Focus You'll need to evaluate both costs and benefits of globalisation - it's rarely completely positive or negative.

The "shrinking world" concept explains how technology has made distances meaningless. Communication speeds boomed in the 1960s, containerisation revolutionised shipping, and Special Economic Zones offer tax incentives that attract massive investment.

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Paul T

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

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In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

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very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Geography

188

1 Dec 2025

3 pages

Understanding Globalisation: Causes and Recent Acceleration

user profile picture

Maisie Wood

@alevel.revisionnotes

Globalisation is basically the world becoming more connected through trade, technology, and culture. It's why you can buy a phone made in China, eat McDonald's in Tokyo, and chat with friends across the globe instantly.

dependence of 2 or more
countries on eachether.
Globalisation is the increasing interconnectivity between countries and people through techn

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Understanding Globalisation and Trade Blocs

Think of globalisation as the world's biggest networking event that never ends. Globalisation means countries depend on each other more than ever before through four main types: economic (trading goods), political (forming alliances like the UN), environmental (sharing similar rules), and cultural (spreading ideas and values).

Trade blocs are like exclusive clubs where countries team up to trade without taxes between members. The EU has 28 countries where you can travel freely and buy cheaper goods, whilst ASEAN (10 Southeast Asian countries) has boosted foreign investment from 117.7billionto117.7 billion to 136.2 billion in just one year.

Three major organisations control global economics: the World Trade Organisation (WTO) removes trade barriers, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) lends money but forces countries to privatise assets, and the World Bank finances development using deposits from wealthy nations.

Quick Tip: Remember that these organisations are run by developed countries, so they often favour their own interests over developing nations.

The free trade vs protectionism debate is crucial for your exams. Free trade supporters argue it's cheaper and lets countries specialise, whilst protectionists use tariffs (import taxes), quotas (import limits), and subsidies (government financial help) to protect local jobs and prevent exploitation.

dependence of 2 or more
countries on eachether.
Globalisation is the increasing interconnectivity between countries and people through techn

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Acceleration and Global Connections

Transnational Corporations (TNCs) are the real architects of globalisation - they're companies operating in multiple countries to maximise profits. They've revolutionised how we connect through cheaper transport (containerisation), faster communication (satellites and fibre optics), and global investment opportunities.

Some countries are completely "switched on" to globalisation because they offer fast internet, international trade hubs, low taxes, excellent transport infrastructure, and cheap labour. Think of China's Special Economic Zones or Las Vegas as a tourist magnet.

Meanwhile, other nations remain "switched off" due to poor geographical location (being landlocked like Zimbabwe), political instability, high crime rates, corruption, and weak infrastructure. North Korea is the ultimate example - they follow a self-sufficiency policy, ban foreign tourism, and restrict internet access.

Remember: Large parts of Africa are bypassed by globalisation despite having valuable resources like diamonds, mainly due to political and infrastructure problems.

The key factors accelerating globalisation include economic liberalisation (relaxing laws for foreign companies), financial deregulation (fewer controls on currencies), improved transport technology, and international organisations promoting free trade.

dependence of 2 or more
countries on eachether.
Globalisation is the increasing interconnectivity between countries and people through techn

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Economic Flows and Global Networks

The modern world runs on global flows - the movement of people, money, goods, and ideas across borders. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is massive money flowing between countries, with the USA receiving the most inflows whilst Japan, USA, China, and Germany have the highest outflows.

TNCs drive globalisation through outsourcing (hiring other companies for services) and offshoring (moving production to cheaper countries). Apple manufacturing in China is a perfect example - it creates jobs and introduces new technology but can destroy local businesses.

The benefits of TNCs include employment opportunities, increased exports, technology transfer, and the positive multiplier effect that boosts entire economies. However, they also cause local business closures and can make countries too dependent on foreign investment.

Trade blocs create economic benefits like free internal trade, lower import costs, and support for weaker member countries. But they freeze out non-members and protect businesses from potentially cheaper competition outside the bloc.

Exam Focus: You'll need to evaluate both costs and benefits of globalisation - it's rarely completely positive or negative.

The "shrinking world" concept explains how technology has made distances meaningless. Communication speeds boomed in the 1960s, containerisation revolutionised shipping, and Special Economic Zones offer tax incentives that attract massive investment.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

6

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Globalisation Insights

Explore key concepts of globalisation, including foreign direct investment (FDI), international trade dynamics, and the benefits of a global economy. This summary provides a comprehensive overview tailored for Edexcel's enquiry question on globalisation, highlighting essential themes and their implications for economic growth and development.

GeographyGeography
12

Globalisation Insights

Explore the dynamics of globalisation, focusing on transnational corporations (TNCs), international trade, and the impact of tectonic processes. This comprehensive overview is tailored for Edexcel A Level Geography students, highlighting key concepts such as business globalisation, migration patterns, and the benefits and challenges of globalisation. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding the interconnectedness of the global economy.

GeographyGeography
12

Understanding Globalisation

Explore the concept of globalisation, its historical context, and its impact on international trade, culture, and politics. This summary covers key aspects such as economic interdependence, the role of multinational corporations, and the effects of technological advancements. Ideal for A-Level students studying the Edexcel specification.

GeographyGeography
11

Global Systems & Governance Overview

Explore the complexities of global systems and governance in this comprehensive revision guide. Covering key concepts such as international trade, globalisation, and the roles of multinational corporations, this resource provides insights into economic inequalities, environmental impacts, and the significance of global governance institutions like the UN and WTO. Ideal for A Level Geography students seeking to deepen their understanding of global geographical issues and sustainable development.

GeographyGeography
12

Globalisation Insights

Explore key concepts of globalisation, including income inequality, Gini coefficient, and foreign direct investment (FDI). This comprehensive mind map covers essential topics for Enquiry Question 3, providing a clear understanding of the impacts and benefits of globalisation on local economies and development indices.

GeographyGeography
12

Globalisation Metrics Explained

Explore the KOF Index and AT Kearney Index in this A-Level Geography summary. Understand how globalisation is measured through social, economic, and political dimensions, and discover the advantages and disadvantages of these metrics. Key concepts include the core-periphery model, offshoring, and the impact of globalization on the global economy and development.

GeographyGeography
12

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

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4.9/5

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user