12.2 Globalization and transnational ethnic identities
5 min read•august 7, 2024
Globalization has reshaped ethnic identities, creating complex connections across borders. People now maintain ties to multiple countries, challenging traditional ideas of belonging. This shift impacts communities worldwide, from groups to .
blend cultures, forming new hybrid practices. Meanwhile, patterns are changing citizenship norms. These trends are transforming urban centers into diverse hubs of international exchange and economic activity.
Transnational Identities and Connections
Transnational Communities and Identities
Top images from around the web for Transnational Communities and Identities
Quote/Counterquote: July 2010 View original
Is this image relevant?
Global Citizenship - Classroom of Many Cultures View original
Is this image relevant?
The Impact of Iranian Diaspora on the Canadian Government Policy Towards Iran - New Canadian Media View original
Is this image relevant?
Quote/Counterquote: July 2010 View original
Is this image relevant?
Global Citizenship - Classroom of Many Cultures View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Transnational Communities and Identities
Quote/Counterquote: July 2010 View original
Is this image relevant?
Global Citizenship - Classroom of Many Cultures View original
Is this image relevant?
The Impact of Iranian Diaspora on the Canadian Government Policy Towards Iran - New Canadian Media View original
Is this image relevant?
Quote/Counterquote: July 2010 View original
Is this image relevant?
Global Citizenship - Classroom of Many Cultures View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- refers to the social, cultural, economic, and political connections between people and communities across national borders
- Transnational identities are shaped by the experiences of living in and maintaining ties to multiple countries simultaneously
- form networks that span borders, allowing for the exchange of ideas, resources, and support (Filipino diaspora in the US and Philippines)
- Transnational identities challenge traditional notions of belonging and citizenship, as individuals may identify with multiple nations and cultures
Diaspora Communities and Cultural Hybridity
- Diaspora communities are groups of people who have dispersed from their ancestral homelands to other parts of the world, often maintaining strong cultural and social ties to their countries of origin (Jewish diaspora, African diaspora)
- Diaspora communities play a significant role in shaping transnational identities and connections, as they often serve as bridges between their host countries and their ancestral homelands
- refers to the blending of cultural elements from different societies, resulting in the creation of new, hybrid cultural forms and practices (Spanglish, fusion cuisine)
- Diaspora communities often exhibit cultural hybridity, as they navigate between the cultural norms and practices of their host countries and those of their ancestral homelands
Cosmopolitanism and Global Citizenship
- is a philosophical and cultural perspective that emphasizes the shared humanity of all people, regardless of national, ethnic, or cultural differences
- Cosmopolitanism promotes the idea of , which recognizes the interconnectedness of all people and the need for collective action to address global challenges (climate change, human rights)
- are characterized by openness to cultural diversity, a sense of belonging to a global community, and a commitment to social justice and equality
- The rise of cosmopolitanism and global citizenship is facilitated by increased global mobility, communication technologies, and the growth of transnational institutions and networks (United Nations, international NGOs)
Global Migration and Citizenship
Patterns and Drivers of Global Migration
- Global migration refers to the movement of people across international borders, often in search of better economic opportunities, safety, or quality of life
- The scale and complexity of global migration have increased significantly in recent decades, driven by factors such as globalization, political instability, and environmental change
- Major patterns of global migration include South-North migration (from developing to developed countries), South-South migration (between developing countries), and forced migration due to conflict, persecution, or natural disasters (Syrian refugees, Rohingya refugees)
- Global migration has significant social, economic, and political implications for both sending and receiving countries, including brain drain, , and cultural diversity
Dual Citizenship and Transnational Belonging
- refers to the legal status of holding citizenship in two countries simultaneously, allowing individuals to maintain ties and exercise rights in both countries
- The rise of dual citizenship is a reflection of the increasing transnational nature of identities and belongings in a globalized world
- Dual citizenship can facilitate transnational mobility, economic opportunities, and political participation, but it can also create challenges related to loyalty, taxation, and security (US-Mexico dual citizens, US-Israel dual citizens)
- The recognition and regulation of dual citizenship vary widely across countries, with some allowing it unconditionally, others imposing restrictions, and some prohibiting it altogether
Remittances and Transnational Economic Ties
- Remittances are the money that migrants send back to their countries of origin, often to support family members or invest in local communities
- Remittances constitute a significant source of income for many developing countries, often exceeding official development assistance and foreign direct investment (remittances to Mexico, Philippines, and India)
- Remittances can have positive impacts on poverty reduction, education, and health outcomes in receiving communities, but they can also create dependencies and exacerbate inequalities
- The flow of remittances is facilitated by transnational economic ties, including migrant networks, money transfer operators, and digital payment platforms (Western Union, MoneyGram, mobile money)
Globalization and Urban Centers
The Rise of Global Cities
- Global cities are urban centers that play a significant role in the global economy, serving as hubs for international trade, finance, and cultural exchange (New York, London, Tokyo)
- The rise of global cities is driven by the concentration of economic power, innovation, and connectivity in these urban centers, as well as the growth of the service sector and knowledge-based industries
- Global cities are characterized by their cosmopolitan character, attracting diverse populations from around the world and fostering the exchange of ideas and cultural practices
- The growth of global cities has also led to the emergence of new forms of inequality and exclusion, as the benefits of globalization are often unevenly distributed within and between cities (gentrification, urban poverty)
Transnational Networks and Urban Connectivity
- Global cities are connected through dense networks of transportation, communication, and economic ties, facilitating the flow of people, goods, and information across borders
- enable global cities to function as key nodes in the global economy, linking regional and national economies to global markets and supply chains (air travel, container shipping, internet cables)
- The connectivity of global cities is enhanced by the presence of transnational corporations, international organizations, and diaspora communities, which serve as bridges between different parts of the world
- The growth of transnational networks has also led to the emergence of new forms of urban governance, as cities increasingly collaborate and compete with each other on a global scale (sister cities, international city networks)
Globalization and Urban Transformation
- Globalization has had a profound impact on the physical and social landscapes of cities around the world, leading to the transformation of urban spaces and the emergence of new urban forms
- The influx of global capital and the growth of the service sector have led to the redevelopment of urban centers, often resulting in the displacement of low-income communities and the gentrification of neighborhoods (Pudong in Shanghai, Downtown Los Angeles)
- Globalization has also led to the growth of informal settlements and slums in many cities, as rapid urbanization and migration outpace the provision of affordable housing and basic services (favelas in Rio de Janeiro, slums in Mumbai)
- The transformation of urban spaces is often accompanied by the emergence of new forms of social and cultural diversity, as well as new challenges related to social cohesion, identity, and belonging (ethnic enclaves, gated communities)
Key Terms to Review (23)
Arjun Appadurai: Arjun Appadurai is an influential anthropologist known for his work on globalization and its effects on culture, particularly regarding how transnational connections shape identities. He introduced key concepts like 'ethnoscapes' and 'ideoscapes' to explain how people's experiences and identities are influenced by global flows of culture, people, and ideas, ultimately impacting the formation of transnational ethnic identities.
Cosmopolitan Identities: Cosmopolitan identities refer to the sense of belonging and identification that transcends local or national boundaries, embracing a global perspective and multicultural influences. Individuals with cosmopolitan identities often navigate multiple cultural contexts, integrating diverse practices, values, and experiences from around the world, which is especially relevant in an age marked by globalization and transnational movements.
Cosmopolitanism: Cosmopolitanism is the idea that all human beings belong to a single community based on a shared morality, transcending national, cultural, and ethnic boundaries. It emphasizes the importance of global citizenship and advocates for inclusivity and diversity, encouraging individuals to embrace multiple identities while fostering understanding across different cultures. This concept becomes increasingly relevant in an interconnected world where globalization shapes our interactions and perceptions of ethnic identities.
Cultural alienation: Cultural alienation refers to the feeling of disconnection or estrangement that individuals experience from their own culture or cultural identity. This phenomenon often arises in the context of globalization, where individuals may struggle to reconcile their traditional values with the influences of a dominant global culture, leading to a sense of loss or marginalization in their cultural practices and identities.
Cultural diffusion: Cultural diffusion is the process through which cultural beliefs, practices, and items spread from one group to another, often through migration, trade, or other forms of interaction. This exchange leads to the blending of cultures, influencing everything from language and religion to art and cuisine. As societies become more interconnected, especially in a globalized world, cultural diffusion plays a key role in shaping transnational identities and cultural landscapes.
Cultural hybridity: Cultural hybridity refers to the blending and merging of different cultural influences, resulting in new and unique cultural expressions. This concept highlights how cultures are not static but dynamic and constantly evolving, often shaped by migration, globalization, and interactions among diverse communities.
Diaspora: Diaspora refers to the movement, migration, or scattering of a group of people from their original homeland to various parts of the world, often maintaining connections to their culture and identity. This term encompasses not just the act of leaving but also the experiences of those who settle in new places while preserving their heritage and building communities. It highlights how cultural identities can transform and adapt across different locations, shaping social dynamics and relationships in both the homeland and host societies.
Dual citizenship: Dual citizenship is the status of an individual who is a legal citizen of two countries simultaneously, enjoying the rights and responsibilities of both. This legal recognition allows individuals to participate fully in the civic life of both nations, often enhancing their personal and professional opportunities. Dual citizenship can arise from various circumstances, such as birth, marriage, or naturalization, and reflects the complexities of identity in an increasingly interconnected world.
Ethnic nationalism: Ethnic nationalism is a form of nationalism in which the nation is defined in terms of a shared ethnicity, culture, language, or history among a group of people. This ideology often emphasizes the idea that ethnic groups have the right to self-determination and can lead to movements aimed at achieving political independence or autonomy based on ethnic identity. It plays a crucial role in understanding how identity is formed and expressed, especially in the context of cultural heritage and political rights.
Global Cities: Global cities are major urban centers that serve as important nodes in the global economic system, characterized by their significant influence on international finance, culture, and politics. These cities are often hubs for global trade, migration, and communication, shaping transnational ethnic identities through the convergence of diverse populations and cultures.
Global citizenship: Global citizenship refers to the idea of being part of a worldwide community that transcends national borders, emphasizing responsibilities and rights that individuals hold towards others globally. It encourages individuals to think beyond their local or national identity, recognizing interconnectedness with people around the world, and promotes active engagement in addressing global issues such as inequality, climate change, and human rights. By fostering an understanding of diverse cultures and shared values, global citizenship aims to create a more equitable and just world.
Global migration: Global migration refers to the movement of people across international borders for various reasons, including economic opportunities, conflict, environmental changes, and family reunification. This phenomenon is influenced by globalization, which enhances connectivity and facilitates the movement of individuals and communities, often leading to the emergence of transnational ethnic identities as migrants navigate between their home and host countries.
Glocalization: Glocalization is the process of adapting global products and ideas to fit local cultures and contexts, combining elements of globalization with local specificity. This concept illustrates how global forces interact with local identities, leading to the emergence of unique cultural expressions that reflect both global and local influences. It highlights the dynamic interplay between universal trends and localized practices, shaping transnational ethnic identities in diverse communities.
Identity crisis: An identity crisis refers to a period of uncertainty and confusion in which an individual questions their sense of self and personal values. This often occurs during significant life transitions or in response to major social changes, leading individuals to explore different identities or cultural affiliations. In the context of globalization, these crises can be amplified as people navigate multiple cultural influences and negotiate their ethnic identities within a complex, interconnected world.
Remittances: Remittances are funds that migrants send back to their home countries, often to support family members and communities left behind. This financial flow plays a crucial role in the economies of many developing nations, influencing social and economic structures. Beyond just monetary support, remittances can foster connections between immigrant communities and their countries of origin, facilitating cultural exchange and transnational relationships.
Saskia Sassen: Saskia Sassen is a prominent sociologist and scholar known for her work on globalization, migration, and the role of cities in the global economy. Her research emphasizes how globalization reshapes transnational ethnic identities, highlighting the interconnectedness of local and global dynamics as individuals navigate multiple cultural affiliations. Sassen's insights help to understand the complexity of identity in an increasingly interconnected world.
Transnational advocacy networks: Transnational advocacy networks are collaborative groups composed of individuals and organizations from different countries that work together to promote specific causes or advocate for social change across national borders. These networks leverage resources, share information, and mobilize support to influence policies, raise awareness, and promote human rights or social justice issues on a global scale. They highlight the interconnectedness of global issues and the role of civil society in shaping international norms and practices.
Transnational communities: Transnational communities refer to social formations that extend beyond national borders, where individuals maintain connections and relationships across multiple countries. These communities are often formed by immigrants and their descendants who create networks that facilitate the exchange of culture, resources, and identities, allowing for a blending of experiences and influences from both their home country and their host country.
Transnational identities: Transnational identities refer to the ways in which individuals or groups form identities that extend beyond national borders, often influenced by migration, globalization, and cultural exchange. These identities are shaped by multiple affiliations and experiences, allowing people to connect with cultures and communities across different nations, thus blurring the lines of traditional national identity.
Transnational networks: Transnational networks refer to the interconnected systems of relationships and exchanges that span across national borders, linking individuals, communities, and organizations in various ways. These networks are shaped by globalization, allowing for the flow of ideas, resources, and identities that transcend traditional state boundaries and foster a sense of shared identity among people of similar ethnic backgrounds, regardless of their physical location.
Transnationalism: Transnationalism refers to the process by which individuals, communities, and organizations operate across national borders, maintaining connections and influences in multiple countries simultaneously. This concept highlights the fluidity of identity, culture, and belonging in a globalized world, where migration and communication enable people to form networks that transcend geographical boundaries.
Urban connectivity: Urban connectivity refers to the interlinking of urban areas through transportation, communication, and social networks, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and ideas. This concept emphasizes how cities are connected not only within their own boundaries but also to other urban centers globally, enabling the flow of resources and cultural exchanges that shape transnational ethnic identities.
Urban Transformation: Urban transformation refers to the dynamic processes of change within urban areas that can involve shifts in population, infrastructure, and economic activities. This phenomenon often results from factors like globalization, migration, and technological advancements, leading to the reconfiguration of urban spaces and social identities.