How Globalisation is Reshaping Cultural Diversity

Globalisation has had a pervasive influence on the world as we know it. It has impacted almost all aspects of society, with cultural diversity being no exception. Globalisation can be defined as the process of interaction and integration among people, companies, and governments on a worldwide scale. Just as globalisation has reshaped the global business landscape, it is also changing the way we view and experience cultural diversity.

One of the most significant impacts of globalisation on cultural diversity is the cross-pollination of ideas, beliefs, and traditions between different cultures. As the world becomes more interconnected, people are exposed to a wider range of cultural practices and customs. This exposure leads to the adoption of new cultural practices and the emergence of new hybrid ones. For instance, the popularity of Bollywood dance and music in the West is a clear example of how cultural exchange can result in the creation of something new.

However, globalisation has also led to the erosion of some traditional cultures. Depending on how open a culture is to external influences, it may lose some of its unique traditions and customs. This is because globalisation tends to promote a homogenised and standardised culture that is easily accessible to everyone. In some cases, local cultures may even disappear altogether as people adopt more dominant cultural practices.

Another way globalisation is reshaping cultural diversity is by creating a more globalised workforce. Due to the ease of travelling and communication, businesses are now operating on a global scale, which has led to a more diverse workforce. Companies are now hiring people from different countries and cultural backgrounds to work together, which creates a melting pot of cultures. However, this also means that companies need to be aware of the differences in cultural practices, beliefs, and customs to ensure cultural sensitivity.

Finally, globalisation has also had an impact on the way we consume and value cultural products. As cultures become more accessible, cultural products such as music, movies, and literature are now consumed on a global scale. This has created a new global market for cultural products, which has both positive and negative effects. On the one hand, it provides an avenue for cultural practices to gain wider acceptance. However, it also places a premium on popular culture, at the expense of less popular or obscure cultural practices.

In conclusion, globalisation is reshaping cultural diversity in both positive and negative ways. While it has promoted the exchange of ideas and the emergence of hybrid cultures, it has also led to the erosion of traditional cultures and the homogenisation of cultural practices. As the world becomes more interconnected, it is important to recognise the unique cultural practices of each society to preserve cultural diversity. Only then can we truly appreciate the richness and diversity of the world we live in.