Blog Topic #3

Of all the countries in Southeast Asia. I consider Singapore to be the most interesting. I wanted to write about it for many reasons. It is not only one of the smallest countries in the world, but it is one of the most unique countries. They keep laws on cleanliness. They are located very close to the equator. They are very diverse, containing British, Chinese, Indian, Malay, and many more immigrants. These are just a few reasons explaining the uniqueness of Singapore.

The above video from the Discovery Channel should be a great reference for people who do not know much about Singapore. Singapore is a tiny island located in Southeast Asia. It is very dense with four million people on the island. It is culturally diverse, and the people are rich. It is considered to be one of the most modern places in the world. The island has made astronomical advances through the last generation. The video mainly emphasizes how Singapore went from a developing country to where it is now. The advances this country has made put it where it is today.

Blog Topic #2

http://www.smh.com.au/business/immigration-not-a-sure-path-to-higher-incomes-20101219-191vz.html

    The above link connects you to the article, "Immigration not a sure path to higher incomes." The article argues whether bringing more skilled immigrants to Australia would raise income or not. Calculations made in 2006 found that increasing the intake of skilled immigrants by 50% only raised the real gross domestic product by 4%. After giving these statistics, the article shows other ideas to increase income with immigration. All of the ideas have flaws. The author of the article, Ross Gittins, finishes with saying,''population growth and immigration can magnify existing policy problems and amplify pressures on 'unpriced' entities, such as the environment, and urban and social amenity''. Australia's net migration from 2000-2005 was 5.1 thousand, according to p. 638 of Diversity and Globalization. Australia is a very diverse country, taking in families from Africa, China, India, Malaysia, and the Philippines. 25% of Australia's population are immigrants. (p. 646) I think this gives Australia a great uniqueness like we have here in America. They may not be receiving great benefits from their immigrants, but it is worth it when you think of other ways your country is benefiting from diversity.

http://www.couriermail.com.au/ipad/sharnee-rawson-what-does-australia-day-really-mean/story-fn6ck8la-1225993763698

Sharnee Rawson wrote, "What Dos Australia Day Really Mean?" after being asked by her immigrated housemates. She comments that the original traditions were not just beer, beach, and barbeque (sounds like Independence Day) like they are today. It started as Foundation Day in New South Wales. It  resembled the colonization of the white society in Australia. In the 1970's, Australia Day helped to remove White Australia Policy with celebrations of multiculturalism and citizenship. Rawson continues to mention traditions of Australia Day until she mentions how it may be celebrated differently. Flooding in Queensland has caused the cancellation of the multi-faith ceremony at Brisbane's South Bank. No matter what, Aussies will celebrate what they have. White Australia Policy were guidelines that promoted European and North American immigration at the expense of other groups until 1973. Because of Australia's immigration, they have accepted more people following Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism. (p. 646) Australia is very diverse, and I find it very healthy of their country to celebrate this diversity. I wish America did something like this. I think we focus too much on the practices of other ethnic groups instead of looking at the positives. We really need a time to just celebrate others ways of life.

Blog Topic #1

This cartoon points out possible disappointments of globalization. It also can help to explain what globalization is for someone who does not know.

"Globalization is a process of interaction and integration among the people, companies, and governments of different nations, a process driven by international trade and investment and aided by information technology." www.globalization101.org

Globalization has a minor negative effect on tourism. The image illustrates a family who has traveled to some of the most unique cities around the world. They have returned with souvenirs they could buy here in America. Realistically, not everyone is like that. If I went to Paris or London or Rome, the last place I would want to go to is McDonald's. I would want to eat things I have never eaten or visit places I may never get to see again. For this, globalization could make a visit to a foreign country less exciting.

Globalization of major franchises involves more positive effects than negative effects. Although it is not the most healthy place to eat, McDonald's may be the most convenient place to buy food. Any person, no matter where they live, may need a quick fix for their need of food. Their are many other examples of  globalization. Anyone can buy cheap furniture from IKEA, and unlimited choices exist among vehicles made by Honda, Ford, Toyota, and GM. Globalization allows countries to not only benefit from their products but also to share those with the rest of the world.