Introduction
It is important to note that globalization is not a monolithic and uniform process but rather a multifaceted and complex force. The conventional view of the given phenomenon is based on the idea of market globalists, which seek to make the world one free-market capitalism. However, a newly emerging perspective has emerged led by justice globalists, who are proponents of social justice, equity, and equality. The main objective is to create a more equitable global order that benefits all nations and peoples. Thesis statement: the vision of justice globalists makes the most sense since it seeks to undo the inequalities caused by historical colonialism, proposes a new alternative to the failures of neoliberalism, and establishes peace through justice.
Burden of Colonialism
Firstly, the persistent burden of colonialism continues to shape the landscape of global inequality, as market globalism thrives on the disparities created by this historical oppression. Countries that were once colonized still suffer from the consequences of exploitation and underdevelopment, with the African continent serving as a prime example of resource extraction by former colonizers. The current economic global order has emerged on the conditions of the inequality of the past without proper reconciliation (Ellwood, 2015). As the world strives for unity and globalization in the face of pressing issues, such as climate change, it becomes increasingly apparent that justice globalism offers a more reasonable approach to addressing the injustices wrought by colonialism. By advocating for restorative justice, justice globalists aim to bridge the chasm between rich and poor nations, fostering collaboration and shared responsibility in tackling global challenges. Recognizing and addressing the enduring legacy of colonialism is essential for creating a more equitable and united global community, working together toward common objectives with mutual respect and understanding (Steger, 2017). Therefore, justice globalism offers a path toward greater solidarity and cooperation grounded in a deep commitment to fairness, justice, and human rights.
Failure of Market Neoliberalism
Secondly, justice globalism offers better prospects than market globalism because the latter already had an opportunity to demonstrate its results, which was not successful in democratizing and establishing a free market world. It should be noted that neoliberalism requires that nations involved have democratic political frameworks, but many countries are still authoritarian dictatorships, monarchies, or descendants of communism (Steger, 2017). Many nation-states have strong protectionist trade barriers, policies, tariffs, and other measures to protect domestic businesses from multinational corporations (MC). These elements do not correspond with the free-market capitalism market globalists strive for under its vision. The examples include India and China, such as the latter having its own social media and internet environment (Ellwood, 2015). Part of the reason is that these nations do not feel safe allowing MC to overtake its domestic markets, which indicates the importance of justice and fairness. Thus, justice globalism promotes a more inclusive and equitable form of globalization that considers the interests and well-being of all individuals, particularly those in developing countries, and recognizes the need for a fair distribution of resources and opportunities. As a result, justice globalism offers a better framework to ensure globalism, where it is not primarily about free market capitalism but rather social justice.
Peace through Justice
Thirdly, global peace is an absolutely necessary ingredient for any form of globalist world order, at which market globalism failed massively, showcasing the need for a superior alternative in the form of justice globalism. Throughout the existence of market globalism after WWII, there were many local wars across the globe, including the Vietnam war, the Middle East, the Balkans, and Northern Africa, among many others (Steger, 2017). Market globalism was not able to create global peace because there was no justice element needed, so the parties involved were satisfied with their position. Those who dominated the globe through colonialism continued to dominate the system, whereas past colonies continued to be overexploited (Ellwood, 2015). The current global crisis, such as War in Ukraine, is a stark example of how peace is impossible under market globalism. However, justice globalism offers fairness and equality as the foundations of its vision rather than the free market, which is why it is open to recognizing past inequalities. Since justice is at the forefront of this vision, there is a better chance to achieve reconciliation among nations, which naturally prevents wars and oppression.
Conclusion
In conclusion, justice globalism presents a more viable and equitable vision for the future of globalization, as it seeks to address the historical injustices caused by colonialism, provide a superior alternative to the failed experiment of neoliberalism, and foster peace through justice. By focusing on social justice, equity, and equality, justice globalism aims to create a more inclusive and cooperative world where the interests of all nations are considered and respected. By acknowledging the past and striving for a just present, this perspective has the potential to create a global community capable of working together to overcome the challenges of the modern era, such as climate change, poverty, and geopolitical conflicts. Thus, the vision of justice globalism offers a more humane and promising path toward a truly globalized world where prosperity, peace, and progress are shared by all.
References
Ellwood, W. (2015). Globalization: Buying and selling the world (4th ed.). New Internationalist.
Steger, M. B. (2017). Globalization: A very short introduction (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.