全球化

Though globalization is an irreversible trend, it remains a very controversial issue. Sometimes it is perceived as a threat to culture, or as an outcome of a particular set of western values.

Yeah. I think one of the most controversial aspects is the worldwide spread and dominanceof American culture.

That maybe the truth. Just as American goods flooded world markets in the post-World War II era, US cultures now present in every continent through the dynamic growth of mass communications such as music, television, films and the Internet, as well as through thepenetration of American corporations into foreign countries.

Yeah. I think there is a global consumer culture that is spread by companies like McDonald's and Coca Cola.

But can global corporations have a homogeneous affect on culture?

Well, as I'm concerned, I don't really think so.

You don't? But you see, if you ask any child about hamburgers or french fries, I'm sure they'll name McDonalds or KFC.

When people examine a culture, they pay too much attention to aspects like the kinds of consumer goods that people buy. That is the most superficial aspect of culture. A culture really consists of deeper moral norms that affect how people link together.

You don't think globalization will result in homogenization of culture, dear?

Well, if you look beneath the surface and ask people in different countries where their loyalties lie, how they regard their families, and how they regard authority, there will be enormous differences.

Though I can't agree with you on every aspect, your views are very enlightening.