Interdependence

Mackenzie Morison

Interdependence is the theory that humans are mutually dependent on each other for our own well being. US President Franklin Roosevelt clearly explains this in his following quote: "We have learned that we cannot live alone, at peace; that our own well-being is dependent on the well-being of other nations, far away.... We have learned to be citizens of the world, members of the human community."

The quote directly relates to the world we live in today. Through technologies and communications countries around the world are becoming more and more interconnected everyday. For instance, the recession in one country can easily spread and affect other countries; a good example of this is the European Debt Crisis. In addition, as a global community we are all affected by and taking part in Climate Change.

Globalization

             Our world is becoming more interconnected every day. Today an extremely strong relationship exists between international trade, communication, and politics. Globalization has allowed for stronger communication to flow amongst more developed countries and developing countries. It has enabled trade to grow, capital and education flows to increase and a better distribution of resources to be met around the world.

             One of the most powerful positive effects of globalization is its impact on legal and ethnical values. Not all good practices were born in one civilization. The world that we live in today is a result of several cultures coming together. For instance, people of one culture tend to see the flaws in their culture and pick up the culture which is more correct or in tune with the times. Societies have become larger as they have welcomed people of other civilizations and backgrounds and created a whole new culture of their own. Cooking styles, languages and customs have spread all due to globalization. However, a negative aspect of globalization can be seen through its effect on culture. The western and popular culture has become dominate and destroys cultural diversity. The western promotion of global news, music, movies, and even the English language promotes this effect

What I Did This Summer:

This summer I traveled to Kenya with the organization Me to We to build a school. I got hands on volunteer experience while interacting with a new culture. Young people everywhere have a right to be free from poverty, thirst, exploitation and disease. I chose to participate in Me to We’s youth volunteer trip because they are an organization that empowers youth to remove barriers that prevents them from achieving their potential. This trip was a great leadership opportunity that allowed me to take action to improve the lives of youth across the world and to go on an unforgettable adventure. I viewed fascinating places, became immersed in a new culture, and developed many friendships. I returned home having gained many experiences and an enhanced knowledge of the world. Working to achieve positive change in the world and having the knowledge of contributing to another person’s life and dreams is the most uplifting and empowering feeling you will ever experience.