Globalisation and Diaspora (What Lost Identity?)

Ways with words

Choose the words from the box for the following meanings.

  1. the severely damaging or destructive effects of something → ravage
  2. someone forced to leave their country in order to escape war, persecution, or natural disaster → refugee
  3. to face a difficult situation → confront
  4. take a position of power or importance illegally or by force → usurp
  5. the process of becoming a part of a group, country, society, etc. → assimilate
  6. an area within a larger territory whose inhabitants are culturally or ethnically distinct → enclave

Fill in the gaps with the correct word from the brackets.

  1. I asked him if he was attending the ceremony and he shook his head 'no'. (shook/moved/ nodded)
  2. They made a horrible decision which caused irreparable damage to our company. (hopeless/ inflexible/irreparable)
  3. The leaders need to break down barriers so as to create favorable environment in the nation. (barriers/obstacles/hindrances)
  4. You ought to talk to the manager to settle the dispute. (solve/settle/clear up)
  5. Perhaps this issue will not get much media coverage (security/examination/ coverage)
  6. This week is the first week of Joan as an in-charge. Everything is running smoothly (smoothly/calmly/easily)
  7. I haven't read the text thoroughly, but given a quick glance. (fast/quick/rapid)
Comprehension

Answer the following questions.

a. Why did millions of Palestinians leave their country?

Millions of Palestinians left their country due to a variety of factors, including a lack of basic human rights and opportunities, and to seek a better life and better economic opportunities.

b. How is the global culture formed? Is cultural identity possible even in the global culture? Justify.

The global culture is formed through the interaction and exchange of ideas, values, and practices between different cultures and societies around the world. Cultural identity is possible even in the global culture, as individuals can still retain and express their unique cultural backgrounds and traditions while also participating in and contributing to the global culture.

c. Why can moving from one side of the world to the other be an economic challenge for newcomers?

Moving from one side of the world to the other can be an economic challenge for newcomers because it often involves adapting to a new cultural, social, and economic environment, which can be costly and time-consuming. Newcomers may also face challenges in finding employment, housing, and other resources in their new home.

d. How can immigrants foster economy at different magnitudes of scale in their new homes?

Immigrants can foster the economy in their new homes by starting their own businesses, which can range in size and scale. They can also contribute to the economy by finding employment and participating in the labor market, as well as by consuming goods and services and paying taxes.

e. Can immigrants fully integrate in the new societies? Give reasons.

It is possible for immigrants to fully integrate into new societies, but it may take time and effort. Integration involves learning the language, customs, and values of the host society, and building relationships and connections with others. However, immigrants may face challenges in achieving full integration due to factors such as discrimination, cultural differences, or a lack of access to resources and opportunities.

f. Mention any two benefits of integrating into a new society for the immigrants.

Two benefits of integrating into a new society for immigrants are:

  1. Improved social and economic opportunities: Immigrants who integrate into a new society may have access to a wider range of social and economic opportunities, such as education, employment, and housing.
  2. Greater social connections and support: Integration can also facilitate the development of social connections and support networks, which can provide a sense of belonging and community for immigrants in their new home.

g. Why should the immigrants run in concordance with global culture?

There are a few reasons why immigrants may benefit from running in concordance with global culture:

  1. Improved social and economic opportunities: Participating in global culture can help immigrants to better understand and navigate the social, cultural, and economic environment of their new home, and may provide access to new opportunities and resources.
  2. Cultural exchange and understanding: Engaging with global culture can also facilitate cultural exchange and understanding between immigrants and the host society, helping to bridge cultural differences and foster mutual respect and understanding.
  3. Personal fulfillment: Participating in global culture can also be personally fulfilling for immigrants, as it allows them to express and celebrate their own cultural heritage while also exploring and learning about new cultures and traditions.

Critical thinking

Do you think that the local is globalised and the global is localised? Can there be the global culture as well? Give examples.

There is ongoing debate about whether the local is globalized and the global is localized, and whether there is such a thing as a global culture. Some argue that the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of the world has led to the globalization of local cultures and the localization of global culture. This is often seen in the spread of cultural practices, products, and ideas around the world, as well as the influence of local cultures on global culture.

For example, the spread of fast-food chains, such as McDonald's and KFC, around the world has led to the globalization of American-style fast food, while at the same time, these chains have also adapted to local tastes and cultures by offering menu items that cater to local preferences. Similarly, the globalization of technology and media has led to the spread of global cultural products, such as movies, music, and television shows, around the world, while at the same time, local cultures have also influenced the content and production of these products.

On the other hand, some argue that there is not a single global culture, but rather a range of overlapping and intersecting cultures that are influenced by local, regional, and global factors. This view suggests that there is not a single, monolithic global culture, but rather a dynamic and diverse cultural landscape that is shaped by the interactions between local and global forces.

Overall, it is clear that the relationships between local and global cultures are complex and multifaceted, and that both local and global cultures continue to influence and shape one another.

What is globalisation? Discuss the effects of globalization on traditional cultures.

Globalization is the process of increasing interconnectedness and interdependence among people, businesses, and countries around the world. It involves the exchange of goods, services, and ideas on a global scale, facilitated by advances in transportation, communication, and technology.

Globalization has had a significant impact on traditional cultures around the world. On the one hand, it has brought about greater cultural exchange and understanding, allowing people to learn about and appreciate different ways of life. It has also facilitated the spread of new ideas and technologies, which can improve living standards and provide economic opportunities.

On the other hand, globalization has also been criticized for its negative effects on traditional cultures. Some argue that it can lead to the homogenization of culture, as global brands and consumer goods become more prevalent and local traditions are lost. It can also lead to the exploitation of local resources and labor, as multinational corporations take advantage of cheap labor and natural resources in developing countries.

Overall, the effects of globalization on traditional cultures are complex and multifaceted. While it can bring about positive changes, it is important to consider the potential negative impacts and ensure that the benefits are shared equitably.

Discuss the impacts of globalization on the process and progress of education in Nepal.

Globalization has had both positive and negative impacts on the process and progress of education in Nepal.

On the positive side, globalization has increased access to education in Nepal by providing funding and resources from international organizations and NGOs. It has also facilitated the exchange of knowledge and expertise between countries, allowing Nepali educators to learn from their counterparts around the world. Globalization has also led to the proliferation of new technologies, such as the internet and online learning platforms, which can enhance the quality and delivery of education in Nepal.

However, globalization has also had negative impacts on education in Nepal. The increasing cost of education, particularly at higher levels, has made it more difficult for disadvantaged and marginalized groups to access quality education. This has led to a widening gap between the rich and the poor in terms of educational opportunities. Globalization has also led to the privatization of education, which has made it more expensive and less accessible to many students.

Overall, the impacts of globalization on education in Nepal are complex and multifaceted. While it has brought about some positive changes, it is important to address the negative impacts and ensure that education is accessible and affordable to all members of society.

Writing

Write a news story to be published in a newspaper about a local festival/fair you have witnessed

Newar Community Celebrates Indravati Jatra in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, December 24: The Newar community of Kathmandu celebrated the annual Indravati Jatra festival this past weekend, a celebration of the goddess Indravati and the end of the monsoon season. The festival, which has been held for centuries, brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy a day of traditional music, food, and games.

The festival began with a procession through the streets of Kathmandu, featuring traditional music and dance performances, and the unveiling of a sacred mandala. The procession was followed by a variety of activities and performances, including live music, traditional games, and a food fair.

One of the highlights of the festival was the food, with vendors offering a wide range of traditional Newari dishes, such as yomari (sweet dumplings) and chhoila (grilled meat). Children and adults alike enjoyed the games and rides at the carnival, while others browsed the many stalls at the craft fair, featuring handmade products from local artisans.

Despite the hot and humid weather, the festival was well-attended, with many families coming out to enjoy the activities and celebrate the community. "It's always such a great time at the Indravati Jatra," said one attendee. "I love seeing everyone come together to celebrate our culture and traditions."

The Indravati Jatra is just one of the many events that bring the Newar community of Kathmandu together throughout the year. "It's important to celebrate our culture and traditions, and to pass them on to the next generation," said the festival organizer. "We're looking forward to next year's festival already."

(The Rising Nepal, December 24, 2022)

Grammar

Complete each sentence using what/how/where/whether + one of these verbs:

  1. Do you know how to get to Rama’s house?
  2. I don’t know whether to apply for the job or not.
  3. Have you decided where to go for your picnic?
  4. Can you show me how to use this camera?
  5. Ask Hari. He’ll tell you how to ride a bicycle.
  6. I was really astonished. I didn’t know how to ride on the horse.

Paraphrase the following sentences using the verb in brackets as in the example

  1. Mahesh forgets closing the windows. (tend) → Mahesh tends to forget closing the windows.
  2. Your car has broken down. (appear) → Your car appears to have broken down.
  3. Ashika is worried about her exam. (seem) → Ashika seems to be worried about her exam.
  4. They have developed the theory. (claim) → They claim to have developed the theory.
  5. He’s enjoying his new job. (pretend) → He pretends to be enjoying his new job.