You have been asked to debate the question of whether globalization improves the lives of people in developed and developing nations. You will either support this notion as the President of Global Operations for Holden-Evan Corporation, a multinational corporation, or oppose the notion as an independent columnist and social critic. You will select points that best support your viewpoint, and choose the best responses to points raised by the opposition.

Explanation:

Choosing Your Role

Which position do you want to take in the debate?

YOU CHOSE OPTION 1

The globalization supporter, the President of Global Operations for Holden-Evan Corporation, a multinational corporation.

you chose the role of the globalization supporter, asserting that globalization improves the lives of people in developing and the developed world.

Opening Statement

The moderator introduces you and asks you to make an opening statement, to explain how globalization has been beneficial for people in both developed and developing countries. Your goal is to select a position that you can support and defend.

As a supporter of globalization, which opening statement is best?

YOU CHOSE OPTION 2

Globalization brings the world closer together, improves organizational efficiency, and has lifted millions out of poverty.

For your opening argument, you said that globalization brings the world closer together, improves organizational efficiency, and has lifted millions out of poverty. This was the best opening statement because it detailed the benefits of globalization for developing as well as developed countries.

Supporting Your Statement

The moderator intervenes: “That’s a good point.

But, can you add something that substantiates your claim?

”What is the best response?

YOU CHOSE OPTION 3

Developing countries that have embraced globalization have seen dramatic increases in per capita GDP and life expectancy. Developed countries benefit by getting access to the best products and services that the world has to offer.

You chose to support your opening statement by claiming that the rate at which the gross domestic product (GDP) increases annually has remained constant across all countries since the advent of globalization. This was a poor choice since it is factually incorrect. Also, even if this were true, it would not support your case. You chose to support your opening statement by referring to the rise of per capita GDP and life expectancy in developing countries and the benefits that developed countries gain access to. This was the best choice as it supports all the claims you made in your opening statement.

Critic's Response

The critic speaks:

“My primary concern about globalization is regarding the income inequality that it has created. In developing countries, the rich, who are profiting most from globalization, are becoming even richer, while the poor get poorer. In developed countries, it is only the economic elite who becoming richer, while the common citizen loses out.”