Chapter 12 Learning Objectives

In this chapter, you should learn to do the following:

1.    Explain what globalization is and how it’s related to global inequality.

2.    Discuss the three main theories used to explain globalization and global inequality, modernization, world systems, and world society.

3.    Define the various stages in societal evolution explained by modernization theory.

4.    Describe what core, periphery, and semi-periphery nations are in the world systems theory.

5.    Explain the role of global institutions and a growing world culture in world society theory.

6.    Explain what the Gini index is and how it’s used to measure global inequality.

7.    Define the three main ways individuals, organizations, and institutions have sought to eliminate global inequality, development assistance, debt relief, and micro-financing.