Globalization in Differing Cultures
Globalization is defined as “the deepening relationship and broadening interdependence among people from different parts of the world, and especially among different countries”. (Daniels p.6) This paper seeks to explore different cultures and how they have reacted to increased globalization.
“Saudi Arabia is a land of contrasts and paradoxes. It has super modern cities, but its strict Islamic religious convictions and ancient social customs, on which its laws and customs depend, often clash with modern economic and technical realities.” (Daniels p.6) Because of these strict cultural customs and laws, it is considerably more difficult participate in globalization in this culture than in more open countries with looser laws and customs. A great example of how this is still being accomplished with proper research and preparation is the Java Lounge in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Before opening its doors, the owners of the Java Lounge hired consultants to make sure there was sufficient market for their product, equipped the lounge with the appropriate entrances for men, women, and families, and chose a location that wasn’t as conservative as Riyadh.
In order to compete in Saudi Arabia, retailers have made additional accommodations for customs such as closing during prayer time and removing the hands from mannequins that are displayed in stores. This has allowed globalization in Saudi Arabia to progress even as ancient customs are being preserved.
From 2001 to 2002 I had the opportunity to live and work in China. Although China at that time still had a pretty rough reputation for being closed to foreign companies, I found that as lon ...