dilettante
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- Location
- Michigan
Part of a series on the changing face of the world already under way.
The Unwinding of Globalism's Impacts
- Thread starter dilettante
- Start date
Part of a series on the changing face of the world already under way.
Robb.hisself
Member
Bologna! The general message is based on two dubious premises. First that Germany is collapsing. Second, that the U.S. is becoming economically nationalistic. Both arguably false. Yes. German perspective is changing by addressing its inward or self perspective/role in the EU. But, that change as interpreted as 'collapse' is only for those who scream 'the sky is falling' with any real change. And true the U.S. is decoupling from China. But, here's where the long term wisdom of NAFTA comes into play. Mexico is now the largest trading partner of the U.S.; no longer China. And, that does not translate into a rise of economic nationalism. Follow who you like. But, don't put on his blinders and narrow your perspective to his.
Paco Dennis
SF VIP
- Location
- Mid-Missouri
Ultimately, the future of power dynamics in Western Europe will depend on a complex interplay of internal and external factors. While Germany faces challenges, its economic strength, political stability, and soft power remain significant assets. It's more likely that a gradual shift in power might occur, with multiple countries sharing leadership roles within a more multipolar Europe.
Harry Le Hermit
Member
Not seeing the bleak future for Germany, lest all of the Eurozone weakens at the same time. Germany was caught off guard on the Energy supply front, but so was most of the Eurozone.
As for China and trade, not really seeing a dramatic shift in the numbers...
International Trade
As for China and trade, not really seeing a dramatic shift in the numbers...
International Trade
dilettante
Well-known Member
- Location
- Michigan
Strong reaction, if a bit ad hominem.
What about the 60B Euro budget shortfall right now? Or the projected even larger budget gaps going forward?
What about population decline? The ongoing energy crisis?
The loss of global markets as the U.S. reels back its free policing of the oceans, allowing piracy to escalate?
The failing relationship with China? A China that already comes close to holding Germany in its pocket?
Loss of captive agricultural markets in Africa due to pushback against product dumping which was driving local production out of business?
Crumbling internal political coalitions? Domestic strife carefully hidden from international visibility?
Paco Dennis
SF VIP
- Location
- Mid-Missouri
Western Europe. A region with no shortage of history, but how will they move forward into a deglobalized world?
Western Europe in a Deglobalized World: Navigating Uncharted Waters
Western Europe, a tapestry woven from ancient empires, industrial revolutions, and cultural renaissances, finds itself at a crossroads. The familiar threads of globalization are fraying, and the continent must chart a new course through uncharted waters. This is a region brimming with potential, but also grappling with complex challenges.The Looming Shadow of Deglobalization:
- Waning Economic Interdependence: The free flow of goods, services, and capital that fueled Europe's prosperity may be slowing. Trade wars, supply chain disruptions, and rising nationalism could fragment the global market, impacting European economies reliant on exports and interconnected supply chains.
- Geopolitical Realignments: The rise of new power centers and the reshaping of global alliances could reshape Europe's strategic landscape. The war in Ukraine has exposed vulnerabilities in European defense and energy dependence, prompting a rethink of security strategies and resource diversification.
- Technological Disruptions: The rapid pace of technological innovation, from artificial intelligence to automation, presents both opportunities and challenges. While Europe boasts a strong tech sector, it must invest in research and development to remain competitive and adapt to a changing job market.
- Doubling Down on Internal Strength: Europe's internal market, a cornerstone of its economic success, must be further strengthened. Investments in infrastructure, digitalization, and green energy can foster resilience and competitiveness within the region.
- Investing in Strategic Partnerships: While deglobalization may pose challenges, it also opens doors for closer collaboration with like-minded partners. Europe can leverage its soft power and shared values to forge strategic alliances that advance common interests in areas like trade, security, and climate change.
- Embracing Innovation and Human Capital: Europe's future hinges on its ability to adapt and innovate. Investing in education, research, and entrepreneurship can nurture a skilled workforce equipped to thrive in the new economic landscape. Fostering a culture of creativity and risk-taking will be crucial.
Western Europe's history is one of resilience and reinvention. From the ashes of war and economic turmoil, the region has repeatedly risen, adapting to changing circumstances and forging a brighter future. The challenges of deglobalization present a new test, but the continent's inherent strengths – its cultural richness, social cohesion, and innovative spirit – offer a foundation for success.
The road ahead will be complex, demanding strategic foresight and bold action. By embracing internal strength, forging strategic partnerships, and investing in its future, Western Europe can navigate the uncertainties of deglobalization and emerge even stronger, charting a new course for itself in a changing world.
Beyond the broad strokes, the specific path each Western European nation takes will likely vary. Some key questions to consider include:
- How will individual countries balance the need for economic integration with the desire for strategic autonomy?
- How will the rise of populism and nationalism impact European unity and cooperation?
- Can Europe effectively address the social and economic inequalities that could be exacerbated by deglobalization?
Germany will soon be replaced as the dominant regional power?
Predicting the future is always fraught with uncertainty, but whether Germany will be "soon" replaced as the dominant regional power in Western Europe is a complex question with no easy answer. Here's a breakdown of the factors at play:
Arguments for Germany's Decline:
- Demographic Challenges: Germany faces a shrinking and aging population, which could hinder economic growth and limit its military and political influence.
- Economic Vulnerability: Germany's export-heavy economy is heavily reliant on global trade and supply chains, making it vulnerable to disruptions and protectionist policies.
- Geopolitical Shifts: The rise of new power centers like China and the ongoing war in Ukraine could reshape the global balance of power, potentially diminishing Germany's relative influence.
- Domestic Political Uncertainty: The recent shift in the German political landscape with the exit of Angela Merkel as Chancellor could lead to a period of instability and uncertainty, impacting the country's ability to exert leadership.
- Strong Economy: Germany boasts the largest economy in Europe and a robust manufacturing sector, providing a solid foundation for future growth and stability.
- Political Stability: Despite recent changes, Germany has a long history of political stability and strong democratic institutions, which could help it weather temporary challenges.
- Soft Power: Germany enjoys considerable soft power due to its cultural influence, historical legacy, and commitment to multilateralism, which can translate into diplomatic and economic leverage.
- EU Leadership: Germany remains a key player within the European Union and plays a crucial role in shaping its policies and direction.
If Germany's dominance were to wane, several contenders could vie for the role of the leading power in Western Europe:
- France: France possesses a strong military, nuclear arsenal, and a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, making it a natural contender.
- The United Kingdom: Despite Brexit, the UK's economic and military power, coupled with its historical ties to the region, could still position it as a significant player.
- Emerging Powers: A potential dark horse could be a rising power like Poland or Italy, which could leverage their growing economic and political clout to exert greater influence.
One thing is certain: the landscape of Western Europe is in flux, and the coming years will be crucial in determining the region's future trajectory.
It's important to remember that these are just some of the possibilities, and the actual course of events could be quite different. Only time will tell how the power dynamics in Western Europe will evolve in the years to come.
What about the 60B Euro budget shortfall right now? Or the projected even larger budget gaps going forward?
The €60 billion budget shortfall in Germany is no doubt a significant challenge, and you're right to raise concerns about its implications and potential future gaps. Here's what we know:
The Current Shortfall:
- Cause: The gap results from the Federal Constitutional Court ruling declaring the government's plan to reallocate unused pandemic funds to climate initiatives as unconstitutional. This leaves a significant hole in planned spending.
- Impact: The immediate effect is a freeze on major expenditures, affecting areas like green initiatives, industry support, and inflation aid. This may hinder some planned progress and cause uncertainty.
- Reasons:Several factors contribute to the larger projected gaps, including:
- Energy Crisis: The ongoing energy crisis puts extra strain on the budget due to increased reliance on expensive alternatives and support measures for citizens and businesses.
- Aging Population: Germany's aging population puts pressure on social security and healthcare systems, increasing financial obligations.
- Economic Uncertainties: Global economic challenges and potential recessions could further impact revenues and necessitate spending adjustments.
- Cost-cutting Measures: The government will likely explore ways to reduce spending in less critical areas or prioritize certain expenses. This may involve efficiency improvements, program revisions, or even tax increases.
- Alternative Funding Sources: Seeking additional funding sources like loans, asset sales, or European Union support could be explored, although each carries its own complexities and limitations.
- Economic Growth: Stimulating economic growth through strategic investments and reforms could generate higher tax revenues and ease the budgetary burden in the long term.
It's important to stay informed about ongoing developments and the government's chosen course of action. Engaging in open discussions and constructive criticism can help contribute to finding effective solutions for Germany's budgetary challenges.
Remember, the situation is complex and evolving, so staying updated on the latest developments is crucial. As more information becomes available, I'll be happy to share any updates on the situation.
What about population decline? The ongoing energy crisis?
You're absolutely right, both population decline and the ongoing energy crisis pose significant challenges for Germany, alongside the budgetary shortfall we discussed earlier. These factors are interconnected and require a comprehensive approach to address them effectively.
Population Decline:
- Challenge: Germany's population is projected to shrink by nearly 20% by 2050, leading to a decreased workforce, economic slowdown, and pressure on social security systems.
- Potential Solutions:
- Immigration: Increasing immigration quotas and streamlining integration processes can attract and retain skilled workers.
- Pro-family policies: Investing in childcare, parental leave, and housing to incentivize larger families could reverse the downward birth rate trend.
- Automation and innovation: Investing in automation and technology could compensate for a smaller workforce and maintain economic productivity.
- Challenge: The reliance on Russian gas, coupled with global energy market volatility, has caused soaring prices and supply shortages, affecting households, businesses, and industries.
- Potential Solutions:
- Renewable energy: Accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal can provide long-term energy security and independence.
- Energy efficiency: Investments in energy-efficient technologies and infrastructure can reduce reliance on imported energy and lower overall consumption.
- Diversification of suppliers: Expanding partnerships with other energy-producing countries can lessen dependence on a single source and provide greater stability.
Addressing these challenges effectively requires recognizing their interconnectedness:
- Population decline can limit the workforce needed for the green transition and increase dependence on automation.
- Energy security concerns can impact economic growth and hinder population retention.
- Budgetary constraints can limit investments in necessary solutions for both problems.
- Green economic policies: Stimulating green industries and technologies that create jobs, address energy security concerns, and attract a young workforce.
- Fiscal responsibility: Balancing deficit reduction with necessary investments in renewable energy, infrastructure, and social programs.
- Long-term planning: Implementing policies with a long-term vision, ensuring sustainable solutions for both the energy crisis and population decline.
It's important to remember that these are complex issues with no easy solutions. However, by staying informed and engaging in constructive dialogue, we can contribute to finding effective and sustainable solutions for Germany's future.
Please feel free to ask any further questions you may have about these topics or any other aspect of Germany's current situation. I'm always here to help in any way I can.
The loss of global markets as the U.S. reels back its free policing of the oceans, allowing piracy to escalate?
The potential for escalating piracy in the wake of a US retreat from its role as "global policeman" of the oceans is a complex and concerning issue with multifaceted implications. While the extent of such a development is difficult to predict, it's crucial to explore the potential scenarios and their ramifications.
Reasons for a US Retreat:
- Shifting Priorities: The US may prioritize domestic concerns, military engagements in other regions, or simply deem the role too resource-intensive in an era of rising great power competition.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Patrolling vast swathes of ocean can be expensive, and other nations may be unwilling or unable to shoulder the burden.
- Geopolitical Tensions: Increased friction with other maritime powers like China could complicate maintaining a global naval presence.
- Economic Disruptions: Increased piracy can disrupt vital trade routes, leading to higher shipping costs, supply chain disruptions, and potential shortages of essential goods.
- Humanitarian Crisis: Pirates may target food and aid shipments, exacerbating existing humanitarian crises in vulnerable regions.
- Security Risks: Piracy can be a breeding ground for organized crime and terrorism, posing threats to maritime security and regional stability.
- International Cooperation:Collaborative efforts between coastal nations and organizations like the IMO (International Maritime Organization) could enhance anti-piracy measures.
- Private Security:Increased use of private security companies to escort commercial vessels could deter pirate attacks.
- Technological Solutions:Advances in satellite surveillance and tracking technologies could improve monitoring and response capabilities.
It's important to remember that this is a complex issue with no easy solutions. Further research and analysis are needed to fully understand the potential ramifications of a US retreat and develop effective mitigation strategies.
The failing relationship with China? A China that already comes close to holding Germany in its pocket?
The relationship between Germany and China is indeed facing complexities, but characterizing it as a 'failing relationship' or China 'holding Germany in its pocket' would be an oversimplification. Here's a more nuanced breakdown:
Current State:
- Strains: Increased frictions exist on various fronts, including:
- Human rights concerns: Germany's criticism of China's Uyghur policies and Hong Kong crackdown strains the relationship.
- Economic dependence: Germany's significant reliance on Chinese trade creates vulnerabilities and potential leverage concerns.
- Geopolitical concerns: Disagreements regarding Russia's war in Ukraine and China's territorial claims further complicate matters.
- Cooperation: Despite the strains, areas of cooperation remain vital, such as:
- Economic interdependence: Trade ties remain crucial for both economies, and collaboration on climate change and global health issues continues.
- Shared interests: Both countries benefit from a stable global order and shared concerns regarding terrorism and nuclear proliferation.
- Dialogue: Despite tensions, diplomatic channels remain open, allowing for communication and potential conflict resolution.
- Leverage: China's economic clout undoubtedly grants it some leverage over Germany, but claiming it 'holds Germany in its pocket' exaggerates its influence. Germany also holds cards as a vital European market and technology hub.
- Limited Influence: Germany retains considerable political and strategic autonomy. Its strong alliances with the US and NATO, along with its commitment to multilateralism, counterbalance China's influence.
- Uncertainty:Predicting the future course of the relationship is difficult. The outcome will depend on various factors, including:
- Internal politics: Changes in leadership in both countries could alter priorities and approaches.
- Global dynamics: Shifts in the global power balance and international crises could shape the relationship.
- Economic factors: Fluctuations in trade and investment could influence the dynamic.
- Managed Competition: The relationship could remain strained, with cooperation in essential areas alongside competition in others.
- Gradual Detangling: Increased economic diversification and geopolitical tensions could lead to a gradual decrease in interdependence.
- Unexpected Cooperation: Addressing a shared global crisis or finding common ground on trade could lead to renewed cooperation.
The German-Chinese relationship is facing challenges, but it's not on the verge of collapse. Recognizing the complexities, acknowledging both tensions and cooperation, and understanding the limitations of China's influence are crucial to navigating this crucial economic and diplomatic partnership. The future trajectory will depend on the choices made by both sides and the evolving global landscape.
Remember, this is a dynamic and evolving situation. Staying informed about current developments and ongoing analyses will help you better understand the nuances of this complex relationship.
Loss of captive agricultural markets in Africa due to pushback against product dumping which was driving local production out of business?
You raise a vital point about the potential consequences of addressing unfair trade practices like product dumping in Africa. While ending this harmful practice benefits local industries and promotes sustainable development in the long run, it can also lead to short-term disruptions and challenges. Here's a closer look at the potential:
Loss of Captive Markets:
- German Dependence: German businesses may have benefited from captive markets in Africa created by product dumping at low prices, hindering local competitors. With fairer practices, African producers could rise, leading to decreased German market share.
- Economic Impact: German businesses reliant on these markets might face revenue losses, impacting profitability and potentially leading to job cuts or reduced investments.
- African Concerns: Transitioning to a fairer trade environment may bring initial hardship. Local industries, still developing, might struggle to compete with established German companies initially. This could lead to higher food prices for consumers and potential social unrest.
- Political Tensions: Misinformation and scapegoating could emerge, potentially leading to anti-German sentiment in some African countries. Addressing these concerns and providing support during the transition will be crucial.
- Sustainable Partnerships: Long-term partnerships between German companies and African producers can facilitate knowledge transfer, technology sharing, and capacity building, empowering local production and ensuring continued market access for German businesses.
- Investment in African Infrastructure and Logistics: Improving infrastructure and logistics within Africa can reduce production and transportation costs, making local producers more competitive. This creates new opportunities for German companies in infrastructure development and technology.
- Focus on Quality and Added Value: German companies can shift their focus from cheap exports to high-quality products with added value, catering to a growing African middle class and diversifying their market presence.
Addressing product dumping and promoting fair trade in Africa offers long-term benefits for both continents. While short-term disruptions and challenges are inevitable, proactive strategies like partnerships, infrastructure investments, and a shift towards quality can mitigate these effects and create a more sustainable and mutually beneficial trade relationship.
Remember, transitioning to a fairer trade environment is a complex process with both challenges and opportunities. It requires continued dialogue, cooperation, and a commitment to long-term goals that benefit both German and African economies.
I hope this information helps you gain a more nuanced understanding of the potential consequences and opportunities arising from addressing product dumping in Africa. Please feel free to ask any further questions you may have.
dilettante
Well-known Member
- Location
- Michigan
Whew. A lot of work there or an AI turned loose on it?
David777
Well-known Member
- Location
- Silicon Valley
Ivy Tower elite, Wall Street, neoconservative, like gasps of losing their control as USA-Western societies become increasingly aware they are losing their dominant grip. Oh indeed there will be much chaos, however those same warmongering military industrialist complex $$$ powers have already myopically led our modern human world there for the sake of wealth, plunging blindly ahead for decades after WWII, with unsustainable human overpopulation, infrastructure growth, development, and behavioral insanity towards irreversible Global Warming and doom.
Robb.hisself
Member
Does this mean the glass is half full or half empty? Was Chicken Little right when he claimed the sky was falling? Does day still follow night? The remarks on this thread seem to indicate that no one has learned much for their age. My grandfather spoke the same woeful description of the world of his day, but it did not collapse into darkness and humanity's end. And, neither will it for the generation that follows mine. 
dilettante
Well-known Member
- Location
- Michigan
Change is afoot. Whether you panic or see opportunities is probably a matter of perspective.
Those who found themselves big winners from globalization at the expense of their fellow man probably are in deep denial. Perhaps keeping the covers pulled up and chanting that everything is fine brings them a comfortable illusion that the worm isn't turning. Casting aspersions on anyone bearing the news might be their only defense when they believe that manufactured consensus is right, proper, and will continue to influence outcomes in a world where corporate control of information has already lost much of its grasp.
Murrmurr
SF VIP
- Location
- Sacramento, California
Everything on your list is a thing that fluctuates. And the fluctuations are normal, fairly constant, and resolvable either naturally or conceptually.
dilettante
Well-known Member
- Location
- Michigan
Sure does sound like things are changing:
fuzzybuddy
SF VIP
- Location
- The Sticks, Northeast PA.
Globalization is very much alive and well. And yes, it does produce winners and losers. I doubt Germany will have to sell off their lederhosen to keep the lights on. German engineering is legendary. German conglomerates account for a huge chunk of the US/worldwide beverage industry, and US steel production.
VaughanJB
Scrappy VIP
Everyone knows that France and Germany have been running the EU from its beginning. They have always held full sway over decisions made, and likely always will. Anyone thinking they're going to fall back isn't paying attention, imo.
As @fuzzybuddy states, globalization isn't going anywhere. Manufacturing is simply being moved from China to places like Vietnam. Those jobs aren't coming home, they'll simply be shipped from a different location. The entire capitalist model, in 2023, is based on globalization of manufacturing. If we don't want that, then we can expect prices to rise massively.
60bn is chump change. For example, the US budget deficit is 1.7tr. The UK's is a little shy of 132bn.
There are more than 20 countries today with a population decline, it's a global issue.
The Spanish and the British have sent ships to help deal with piracy.
Everyone has a failing relationship with China right now, with the possible exception of Russia. How does China hold Germany "in its pocket"? Especially as compared to any other country?
Agriculture is in a mess, largely because of the war in Ukraine. That aside, agriculture is not even in the top five exports from Germany (which are Cars ($135B), Packaged Medicaments ($64.6B), Motor vehicles; parts and accessories (8701 to 8705) ($64.5B), Vaccines, blood, antisera, toxins and cultures ($45.6B), and Planes, Helicopters, and/or Spacecraft ($21.2B), exporting mostly to United States ($135B), China ($121B), France ($119B), Netherlands ($100B), and Italy ($88.7B).)
Crumbling politics? Well, it'll lead to elections, just as it would/should in any free country. Just look at recent elections that have been held across Europe, they're being dominated (though not neccessarily won) by the radical right wing. Still, democracy is democracy.
And let's not forget, the EU is still having to work through the exit of the UK, which drained it of funds overall. Yet the programs in place were largely designed when we were members.
Paco Dennis
SF VIP
- Location
- Mid-Missouri
The EU has focused on economic growth as and end in itself and it has overlooked negative social and environmental impacts. I think it needs to move towards multiple economic, social, and environmental goals. The infinite growth model is finished.
VaughanJB
Scrappy VIP
That's an accusation you could aim at the US, China, and for that matter Russia. Growth is required for capitalism to function, so I'm not sure what system we'd be heading toward.
Paco Dennis
SF VIP
- Location
- Mid-Missouri
A multi-polar world. Currencies are being used differently than in the past. The American dollar is losing it's strength. Infinite growth is finished. It will have to move in a direction of adaptation to overpopulation, and environmental/economic survival for all, not just the ruling class.
VaughanJB
Scrappy VIP
We can have economic survival without throwing out capitalism though, right? With populations dropping due to a lack of births in many countries, I don't think overpopulation is a problem right now. Capitalism has failed to an extent. However, that's because we've been too busy stripping away regulations. Capitalism needs good controls to be fair, otherwise it's only concern is growth. It's a failing of us, not the model.
We're entering troubling times. We have two wars going on, and every day I wake up expecting to see a headline that China has attacked a neighbor. That seems inevitable. Too many people are beginning to feel the pinch.
Paco Dennis
SF VIP
- Location
- Mid-Missouri
Capitalism has never been the problem. It is how humans manipulated the "money" that has caused the collapse. Sure, some form of symbolic trade, most likely digital "currencies", will be used and kept track of by AI. That's insane to say overpopulation is not a problem. The birthrates are dropping, and we have a problem there in about 50 years...if we make it that long. But NOW people are spilling over into other countries. People, lots and lots of people.
Regulation should be a common part of every policy humans enact. With lack of regulation, and legal impunity and you pretty much have our global system of economic disparity.
Don't worry about China yet...the Houthis are on the warpath...Iran.
Regulation should be a common part of every policy humans enact. With lack of regulation, and legal impunity and you pretty much have our global system of economic disparity.
Don't worry about China yet...the Houthis are on the warpath...Iran.
VaughanJB
Scrappy VIP
Capitalism has never been the problem. It is how humans manipulated the "money" that has caused the collapse. Sure, some form of symbolic trade, most likely digital "currencies", will be used and kept track of by AI. That's insane to say overpopulation is not a problem. The birthrates are dropping, and we have a problem there in about 50 years...if we make it that long. But NOW people are spilling over into other countries. People, lots and lots of people.
Immigrants aren't traveling due to over-population. The biggest reason is to avoid war/danger. Heck, in 2021 there were 90m emigrating to escape war and the breakdown of law in their own countries. The second group are economic emigrants. As I asked in the past thread, if you couldn't feed your kids, what would you be willing to do?
I am surprised at some of the reasons someone can gain entry into the UK though. I don't want to discuss that any further though, since it can be extremely divisive.
As for China, that are well ahead in preparation for war, building islands and turning them into military bases etc. It's not good.
Paco Dennis
SF VIP
- Location
- Mid-Missouri
Ok displacement is causing the border crisis, with lots and lots of people..( definition of overpopulation"...not "global overshoot".)
I do agree...China has some "very interesting" plans.
I do agree...China has some "very interesting" plans.
horseless carriage
Well-known Member
Question: What is the truest definition of Globalisation?
Answer: Princess Diana's death.
Question: How come?
Answer: An English princess.
with an Egyptian boyfriend,
crashes in a French tunnel,
driving a German car,
with a Dutch engine,
driven by a drunk Belgian,
on Scottish whisky,
followed closely by Italian Paparazzi,
on Japanese motorcycles,
treated by an American doctor,
using Brazilian medicines,
This is sent to you by a Brit,
using Bill Gates's technology,
and you're probably reading this on your computer,
that use Taiwanese chips,
and a Korean monitor,
assembled by Bangladeshi workers,
in a Singapore plant,
transported by Pakistani truck-drivers,
hijacked by Indonesians,
unloaded by Sicilian longshoremen
and trucked to you by Mexican illegals.
That, my friends, is Globalisation!
Answer: Princess Diana's death.
Question: How come?
Answer: An English princess.
with an Egyptian boyfriend,
crashes in a French tunnel,
driving a German car,
with a Dutch engine,
driven by a drunk Belgian,
on Scottish whisky,
followed closely by Italian Paparazzi,
on Japanese motorcycles,
treated by an American doctor,
using Brazilian medicines,
This is sent to you by a Brit,
using Bill Gates's technology,
and you're probably reading this on your computer,
that use Taiwanese chips,
and a Korean monitor,
assembled by Bangladeshi workers,
in a Singapore plant,
transported by Pakistani truck-drivers,
hijacked by Indonesians,
unloaded by Sicilian longshoremen
and trucked to you by Mexican illegals.
That, my friends, is Globalisation!