Discuss the social and economic effects of globalization on one country in the Americas during the period from 1980 to 2000.

Candidates are required to offer a considered and balanced review of the effects of globalization on society and the economy of one country in the region within the given time period. The effects vary greatly depending upon the country chosen. A possible approach could be to identify the characteristics of globalization in order to review its benefits and limitations.

Indicative content

Economic effects

• Globalization gave access to new markets.
• Employment levels were either positively or negatively affected.
• Many countries experienced modernization of communications and transportation.
• Growth of transnational trade, the extension of regional economic integration, such as the North America Free Trade Association (NAFTA) and Mercado Comun del Sur, Mercosur (the Common Market of the South) could all be considered.
• The role of multinational corporations, capital flight, and greater competition could be included.
• Globalization also resulted in increased environmental concerns.

Social effects

• New immigration patterns, especially to the US, developed.
• Greater cultural diversity and challenges to local cultures were also results of globalization.
• The growth of consumerism and new opportunities in education occurred.
• In some countries, globalization may have created greater social inequality.
• There was a rise of social movements opposed to globalization, such as Zapatistas in Mexico.

The above material is an indication of what candidates may elect to write about in their responses. However, the list is not exhaustive and no set answer is required.

Examiners are reminded of the need to apply the markbands that provide the “best fit” to the responses given by candidates and to award credit wherever it is possible to do so.

[20 marks]