Question 1

Which of the following best characterizes the balance of power between nation-states and transnational corporations (TNCs)?

Accepted Answer

Transnational corporations have gained significant autonomy due to globalization, often operating across multiple countries and influencing economic and political decisions independently of any single nation-state.

Question 2

Of which of the following concepts is McDonaldization an extension?

Accepted Answer

McDonaldization is an extension of the concept of rationalization, a term originally coined by Max Weber to describe the process by which traditional methods of doing things are replaced by efficiently organized procedures designed to save time and effort. McDonaldization applies this concept to the fast-food industry and beyond, illustrating how principles of fast-food restaurants have come to dominate more and more sectors of American society and the rest of the world.

Question 3

Which of the following concepts could be employed in an argument against the idea that globalization is equivalent to homogenization?

Accepted Answer

Glocalization and regionalization highlight how global influences adapt to local contexts, suggesting diversity rather than homogenization.

Question 4

Which of the following do most sociologists NOT consider as source of globalization?

Accepted Answer

Culture is not considered a source of globalization by most sociologists.

Question 5

What does the case of tobacco manufacturer Philip Morris's attempts to establish a market in Korea illustrate?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What does the case of tobacco manufacturer...

Question 6

Some reality TV shows, such as Big Brother, now exist in dozens of national versions. They all hope to achieve success by imitating content already proven popular elsewhere. Which of the following globalizing processes is demonstrated here?

Accepted Answer

Homogenization is demonstrated here, as the replication of a popular reality TV show format across different countries leads to a uniformity in cultural products and entertainment formats globally.

Question 7

Who defined the concept of McDonaldization?

Accepted Answer

George Ritzer introduced the concept of McDonaldization in his book "The McDonaldization of Society" where he describes the process by which the principles of the fast-food restaurant are coming to dominate more and more sectors of American society as well as the rest of the world.

Question 8

In a class discussion about the homogenizing effects of globalization, Freja points out that even in multinational chain stores and restaurants there are locally influenced differences in products and services. What concept is she supporting?

Accepted Answer

Glocalization refers to the adaptation of global products and services to fit local markets and cultures. Freja's point about multinational chains adapting their offerings to local tastes and preferences exemplifies this concept.

Question 9

With which of the following terms has the global transmission of American values and American business culture become synonymous?

Accepted Answer

McDonaldization refers to the global spread of American values and business practices, particularly those associated with fast-food chains like McDonald's, symbolizing a broader cultural and economic influence.

Question 10

Which of the following always searches for increased profit and market?

Accepted Answer

Industrial capitalism inherently seeks to maximize profit and expand market share, as it involves private ownership of production with the goal of generating profit in a competitive market.

Question 11

Mira works for GEN-X, a large corporation that employs people in 30 nations. Which of the following differentiates her organization from a more traditional one?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Mira works for GEN-X, a large corporation...

Question 12

Amnesty International is an organization promoting human rights worldwide. To which of the following aspects of globalization does this organization contribute?

Accepted Answer

Amnesty International contributes to homogenization by promoting universal human rights standards and values across different cultures and regions, thereby encouraging a more uniform global understanding and implementation of human rights.

Question 13

According to Benjamin Barber, which of the following creates McWorld?

Accepted Answer

Benjamin Barber argued that globalization creates McWorld, a term he used to describe a global culture dominated by capitalist values, consumerism, and the spread of Western culture.

Question 14

According to the textbook, which of the following is necessary for globalization to occur?

Accepted Answer

Cheap transport and communication technology are necessary for globalization to occur because they enable the flow of information, goods, and services across borders more efficiently and at lower costs, facilitating interconnectedness and interdependence among nations.

Question 15

According to the textbook, why is Canadian trade with South Korea much more advanced than its trade with North Korea?

Accepted Answer

South Korea's government policies are more open and supportive of international trade compared to North Korea's policies, which are more isolationist. This has facilitated a more advanced trade relationship with Canada.

Question 16

Which of the following is the main characteristic of transnational corporations?

Accepted Answer

Transnational corporations primarily operate in multiple countries, often relying on foreign labor to take advantage of lower costs and local expertise.

Question 17

When Dion was hired at an office supply chain store, he had to memorize scripts for every possible interaction with customers and every procedure he may have to perform. What process is at work in Dion's workplace?

Accepted Answer

Rationalization refers to the process of replacing traditional and spontaneous methods of organization with calculated, efficient, and predictable procedures. In Dion's case, memorizing scripts for interactions and procedures is an example of rationalization, as it aims to make customer service more efficient and standardized.

Question 18

Globalization of the tobacco market shows that success of transnational corporations depends on all of the following EXCEPT which one?

Accepted Answer

Globalization of the tobacco market and the success of transnational corporations in this field are less about the intrinsic quality of the product and more about factors such as economic competition, political influence, and advertising strategies. These elements play a crucial role in market expansion and dominance, whereas the quality of tobacco products, given the health concerns and regulations, is not the primary driver of success in the global market.

Question 19

In a class discussion about the homogenizing effects of globalization, Freja points out that even in multinational chain stores and restaurants there are locally influenced differences in products and services. Which of the following theories could Freja draw upon to support her argument?

Accepted Answer

The answer of In a class discussion about the homogenizing...

Question 20

Which of the following has increased through the pursuit of higher profits?

Accepted Answer

Globalization has increased through the pursuit of higher profits as companies expand their operations and markets internationally to maximize their earnings.

Quiz 9: Globalization, Inequality, and Development

Which of the following best characterizes the balance of power between nation-states and transnational corporations (TNCs) ?