Abstract The paper discusses how the EU constitutes an important international actor, exercising both passive and active leverage force on its neighbours who aspire to join the Union. The paper illustrates the difficulties Ukraine faces in acquiring full EU membership. The paper, however, describes the positive change in European rhetoric towards Ukraine in recent years as well as Ukraine's intensification of cooperation at top political levels. The paper maintains that the past track of EU-Ukraine interaction should be left behind, as Ukraine now embarks on a series of new domestic reforms under the guidance of European values.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Common Norms, Values, Political and Socio-economic Standards
The History of Interaction
Recent Developments
Conclusion
From the Paper "The existence of borders is rarely unchallenged - by the end of 1990s there appeared new lines of division on the continent between an almost united Europe and the rest. After the European Union (EU) enlargement in May 2004, Europe's political boundaries still do not coincide with its geographic ones and Ukraine is very active in attempting to regain its rightful place in Europe. According to Avery, 'the term ''Europe'' has not been officially defined. It combines geographical, historical and cultural elements, all of them constitutive of the European identity. The common experience of proximity, values and historical interaction cannot be gathered in a simple formula and should be revised by each new generation. Therefore, the Commission estimates that establishing the frontiers of the European Union, whose limits will be redefined in the next years, is neither possible nor opportune' (Avery, 1992, p. 11)."
Tags: democracy, membership, Orange, Revolution, Yuschenko, Kuchma, government
Abstract The paper compares and contrasts two articles on globalization. The paper looks at their contexts, writing styles, intents and layout. The paper explains that Broswimmer's article "Ecocide and Globalization" is concerned with the "big picture" when it comes to globalization and in stark, accessible language, he sounds a wake-up call. The paper contrasts this to Tomlinson's article "Globalization and Culture" that addresses only one aspect of globalization, with the text not being accessible to all.
From the Paper "The first thing to note when comparing these two articles is the context. Tomlinson's article is the first chapter of a book called Globalization and Culture. Thus, we know that the context is to introduce and frame an examination of this narrow aspect of globalization. Tomlinson acknowledges that his account is not multidimensional, but at the same time asserts that an account of merely the cultural "slice" of globalization does not have to be one dimensional - and indeed, he does a very good job of relating this one dimension to the wider reality of globalization."
Abstract The paper provides a description and analysis of the world situation in the years from 1945 to 1970. The paper looks at the Cold War, the events in the Middle East and the revolutionary disorders of this time. The paper explains that an analysis of these events allows us to understand the complexity of some of the major events and how they interacted to form the global strategic history of the postwar era.
Outline:
The Strategic Situation
The Cold War
Threats of Disorder and/or Revolution
Conclusion
From the Paper "The state of the world in 1970 is a world far removed from the promise of the future set out less than a generation before by the victorious Allies after World War II. America, the globe's preeminent superpower, is wracked by civil rights conflicts and youth protests at home while an apparently intractable war proceeds in Vietnam. In the Middle East, the overwhelming victory of the Israelis over Arab nations in the 1967 war has yielded to division in the Arab world and the rise of the Palestinian liberation movement. In Europe various nations struggle with how to integrate themselves economically and politically, while centers of the great European empires of Britain and France suffer from a decline in their stature."
Abstract The paper looks at the fall of communism in the USSR in 1991 when emigration restriction policies were changed and many people could finally emigrate to the United States. The paper discusses the ongoing struggles of Russia, Ukraine and other former Soviet republics to become democratic countries. The paper explains that these lingering uncertainties, combined with pervasive political corruption and economic stagnation, have convinced many over the last few years that emigrating to the United States is their only hope of a better future.
From the Paper "Hutchinson (1981) notes that throughout its history, the United States has experienced continuous immigration, for American political freedoms, religious tolerance, economic opportunities, and huge geographical size have combined to draw millions of people from all around the world to our shores, in hopes of building better lives for themselves and their children. Over the years, the pace of immigration has waxed and waned depending upon political, religious, and economic conditions overseas, and has consisted at different times of a wave of immigrants from Northern European countries, then from southern and eastern European countries, and more recently from Asia and the former republics of the Soviet Union."
Abstract The paper examines how political, economic, social and cultural conditions prevailing in a country influence the economic development and the level of corruption. The paper discusses the direct relationship between economic development, corruption and political transition in Mexico, Taiwan, Russia and the People's Republic of China. The paper concludes that there are no easy solutions available for developing countries making the transition from authoritarianism to free-market democracy and struggling to establish viable, stable economies.
From the Paper "Economic development is often correlated to the degree of corruption, especially in countries struggling to transition from authoritarian rule to free-market democracy. For example, in Mexico and Taiwan, it is evident that correlations exist between economic development and corruption, for the sectors of their economies which are performing the best are the ones most riddled with corrupt relationships between government officials and businessmen in the form of paying bribes or providing kickbacks."
Abstract This paper relates that Ivan T. Berend, in his book "History Derailed: Central and Eastern Europe during the Long Nineteenth Century", discusses the perceptible insecurity of Eastern and Central Europe as it witnessed the dramatic rise of Western Europe to global prominence. The paper then examines Berend's failure, in the book, to draw the explicit linkages that might make the unfolding of Central and Eastern European history more comprehensible to first-time students. Additionally, the paper points out the strong and lucid organization of Berend's work but concludes that, while a generally engaging and well-written text, Berend's work is certainly not without its apparent flaws. .
From the Paper "To begin with, Berend does a capable job of outlining the instigating factors which made it incumbent upon Eastern Europe to "modernize". Not least of all, Eastern and Central Europe was compelled to re-assess its own progress and economic system in light of the startling ascendancy of the west. Most crucial of all, Berend touches upon the fact that Eastern European and Central European nations felt themselves not only backward relative to the west, but also vulnerable to any expansionist ambitions their western colleagues might contemplate. In a related vein, the elite of the aforementioned nations was troubled by the fact that it was being consigned (indeed, already was consigned) to the continental periphery (Berend, 1; for a further discussion of Western European ascendancy, please see also pages 5-8). The inclusion of such sentiments in the book may seem a small matter, but what Berend has done is remind readers of how so much of what passed for Central and European politics in the "long nineteenth century" was motivated feelings of fear and pangs of insecurity."
Abstract The author discusses a research proposal that will focus on the impact of globalization on Great Britain, particularly in terms of input and policy issues relating to social welfare. The author plans to study political conditions in Great Britain before and after globalization emerged in order to determine why the social welfare state developed differently in Great Britain compared to other Western European states. The author also discusses the type of source materials he/she will use.
From the Paper "Taking this approach will enable me to determine why the social welfare state developed differently in Great Britain compared to other Western European states. In general terms, it was directly experienced by every citizen through higher taxes or social welfare economic relief as it evolved throughout Western Europe, but there was a considerable difference in social welfare policies and structure between these countries because of different political, economic, social, and cultural factors unique to each of them."
"The type of materials I plan to use will include political science, economics, history, and sociology texts, for these sources will provide information regarding the presence or absence of powerful trade union movements, the motivations of elites, the influence of external threats, the degree of social homogeneity or heterogeneity, the extent of stability or turmoil in the immediate historical context, and the cultural values and traditions of Great Britain. All of these factors influenced the rise and fall of the social welfare state in the UK, so source material focusing on the impact of these factors will have to be consulted and cited."
Abstract This paper discusses the Banana War and the role of the major players over the eight year dispute. The paper examines the World Trade Organization (WTO) and its paradoxical mandate to have 'fair' competition and provide an arena for objective negotiations. The paper shows how the Banana War highlighted the dynamics of globalization, the workings of the WTO and the politics of international economic activities.
Outline:
Introduction
Dynamics of the Banana War
World Trade Organization: Role in the Banana War and Dispute-Settlement
'Players' of the Banana War
Conclusion: The 'Banana Split'
From the Paper "The 'Banana War' provides the platform to explore the concept of international economics, within the paradigm of political economics. That is, with a history embedded in colonialism, which some say caused the economic collapse of African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) countries (Capella, 2005); shouldn't the EU be responsible for the economic health of these regions? If so, preferential treatment to these regions, was not illegal, but was in-fact justified. However, in a globalized world, with the laws of demand and supply dictating economic policy, should an uncompetitive player be allowed to remain in the market, due to protectionism? If no, then the US was well within its right to seek retribution for losses they incurred. These complex issues and questions will be analyzed and answered in the following sections."
Abstract The paper looks at why the countries of the North American zone; Canada, the United States and Mexico joined together as an economic bloc and why European nations chose to re-constitute themselves into a single political and economic bloc after the Second World War. The paper then examines how economic integration between the European and North American countries has been and is pursued. The paper compares NAFTA to the European Union and explores the tensions between the two powerful trading blocs and where their tense relationship appears to be headed.
Outline:
Introduction
The North American Free Trade Agreement
The European Union: Its Origins, its "Unity-Based" Agenda, and its Collective Trade Policy
Comparing NAFTA with the European Union
Conclusion
From the Paper "The "official" reasons for the emergence of the North American Free Trade Agreement are stated in Article 102 of the document. Specifically, the document states that all three signatories wish to eliminate barriers in trade and to facilitate the free movement of goods and services across the boundaries of the various territories. Article 102 also makes it clear that NAFTA is meant to promote "fair competition" and to increase investment opportunities for all three nations. As importantly as anything else, the document also delineates that the free trade accord is meant to ensure that intellectual property rights and the enforcement of intellectual property rights is carried out effectively and vigorously in all of the ratifying nations."
Abstract The paper discusses the Euro vis-a-vis its impact on U.S. monetary and financial policy. The paper reveals that the Euro is currently performing well on the open currency markets and its strength versus the dollar is strong. The paper discusses how U.S. monetary policy, as guided by the Federal Reserve, has been forced to adjust its policy to accommodate the stronger Euro and its impact on trade and foreign relations.
Outline:
Abstract
Overview
U.S. Economic Policy
Exchange Rate Effects
Conclusion
From the Paper "In spite of its weak introduction, the Euro has become a major international currency on a par with the U.S. dollar, the British pound, and the Japanese Yen. The concept of a unified European currency has its origins in post World-War II Europe that was severely damaged, both economically and socially, by the ravages of the German war machine as well as the various political tyrannies that had led up to the war (Harrop, 1999). The Euro as a model of single-currency for the European Union was largely formalized in the Maastricht treaty of 1992 where the European Union became a reality rather than a pipedream (Harrop, 1999). The Euro was the conception of the 12 original European member states and was spear-headed by the Council of the European Union and the European Commission that set the formula for deciding the conversion rates at implementation (Pomfret, 2005). While initially weak on the open currency markets, the Euro quickly established itself as viable common currency regime for the EU and it has become a factor in many world economies and especially that of the U.S. economy."
Abstract This paper examines how the Czech Republic has a history embroiled with communism and totalitarianism. It attempts to analyze the cultural differences between the Czech Republic and the United States as a prerequisite to understanding the necessary business risks, which Chicago Style Pizza will face following its expansion into the Czech Republic.
Outline:
History of the Czech Republic
Cultural Differences and Associated Business Risks
Comparative Advantages in the Czech Republic
Hofstede's Evaluation: It's Usefulness in with Chicago Style Pizza in the Czech Republic
Trade Barriers in the Czech Republic
Economics of the Pizza Market in the Czech Republic: Demand, Cost Structure, and Elasticities
From the Paper "The Czech Republic is moving closer towards Western-style models of business management and economic reform; inevitably increased pizza consumption factors into the constant upward trend. Today the Czech Republic is one of the most affluent of the post-Communist states of Central and Eastern Europe; so Kafka will find a favorable business environment in Prague. Prague is located within Central Europe this is a prime location for new business activities and creates an ideal environment for foreign trade and increased business investment opportunities; Kafka is taking advantage of a fruitful business environment."
Abstract The paper discusses the CIA's failings in investigating the build-up of Soviet missiles in Cuba and President John F. Kennedy's skepticism towards anything coming from the CIA. The paper explains how the intelligence community's failure at the Bay of Pigs made Kennedy less than receptive to any information he received from them. The paper concludes that had Kennedy been more receptive, the Cuban Missile Crisis could have been headed off months earlier.
From the Paper "In an article that was published less than three years after the Cuban Missile Crisis of October, 1962, Roberta Wohlstetter comments at length upon the role that intelligence played in the international incident. Specifically, she floats the idea that the U.S. intelligence establishment knew about the missiles long before they chose to act on them. For example, she mentions U.S. Senator Kenneth Barnard Keating and how he asserted in August of 1962 that he had reliable evidence of "cylindrical objects" being transported by flatbed in Cuba, as well as evidence of Soviet motor convoys. Still, despite Senator Keating's public proclamations, the dramatic (and conspicuous) arms build-up in the fall of 1962 seemed to catch U.S. leaders - both military and civilian - by surprise when it became evident that some sort of decisive action was needed."
Tags: Bay, of, Pigs, Kennedy, Castro, arms, evidence, skepticism
Abstract The paper shows how many nation-states have lost some autonomy and the massive changes of globalization have blurred the borders of nation-states. The paper contends, however, that it is inaccurate to state that the obsolescence of the nation-state has rendered the world borderless. The paper maintains that despite global economic changes, political, cultural and historical factors will continue to bolster the nation-state, so that national borders will not be disappearing in the foreseeable future.
From the Paper "There has been a great deal of debate in recent years about globalization. Does it really exist? And if so, how pervasive is it? Is it reversible, or has it now become both irreversible and hegemonic? These debates embrace considerations of both economic and political globalization, although of course it must be borne in mind that the two are inextricably intertwined. When it comes to political globalization, Steger points out that much discussion is concerned with "the weighing of conflicting evidence with regard to the fate of the modern nation-state" (28). This is because globalization is widely assumed to be a threat to the continued sovereignty, autonomy and influence of the nation-state. In the same vein, many scholars see international economic forces as a form of economic globalization that could lead to the end of the nation-state as a meaningful economic unit. Moreover, for those who see economics as the primary force determining human society and history, this would also mean the end of the nation-state as a meaningful political and social unit."
Abstract The paper looks at the thesis of both Robert Reich's text, "The Work of Nations" and a PBS presentation "Wal-Mart: Is It Good for America?" and examines the manner in which the theses are substantiated as well as the objectivity of the works. The writer shows how both writers present similar theses and that each presents facts in a manner that support their underlying arguments. The paper concludes that both sources offer insight into the dark realities of twenty-first century capitalism, although only Reich offers definitive solutions.
From the Paper "Robert B. Reich's text on what the twenty-first century portends is remarkably prescient in light of the fact it was completed by its author at the dawn of the 1990s. Overall, Reich appears to take the view that the old phenomenon - one which dates back to the nineteenth century - of the individual standard of living rising or falling in concert with the economic performance of the nation's largest business organizations is no longer taking place. Instead, technology, money, jobs and ideas are flowing more easily than ever across national borders and from one part of the globe to another. As a result, national corporations are losing whatever national identity they might once have had as the profit-maximization potential of the global workplace manifests itself."
Abstract The paper discusses the closing of multinational companies in favour of China, India or another country where labour costs are low, setting a trend of eroding manufacturing across America. The paper explores whether the trend is to the ultimate benefit or detriment of the American economy. The paper looks at Lou Dobbs' opinions in his book "Exporting America: Why Corporate Greed is Shipping American Jobs Overseas" and discusses the movement against "exporting America". The paper concludes that American economists foresee the globalization trend as inevitable with the developing giants gaining at the expense of America.
From the Paper "Many believe the globalization phenomenon is much more of a threat to America than a positive step. The most common example brought up to demonstrate this fact is the closing of multinational companies in favour of setting up shop in China, India, or another country where labour costs are stunningly low. Other critics cite the increasing number of imports from China to America, giving the giant nation a growing edge on the American economy. In fact, one must remember that although China is a developing country, it is the fourth largest economy in the world and is now also the world's fastest growing economy. India, too, traditionally a developing nation, is seeing a sudden surge in economic growth owing to the American trend of outsourcing jobs."
Tags: globalization, outsourcing, economy, exports, imports, jobs
