CBSE Class 12 Sociology (2026–27)
Book: Social Change and Development in India
Chapter 5: Globalisation and Social Change
20 Important Questions and Answers
1. What is Globalisation?
Answer:
Globalisation is the process through which countries become increasingly connected through trade, technology, communication, culture, and investment. It enables the movement of goods, services, ideas, and people across national boundaries. Advances in transportation and information technology have accelerated this process. Globalisation has reduced geographical barriers and created a more interconnected world. In India, economic reforms introduced in 1991 encouraged global integration. While globalisation has created new opportunities for employment, education, and business, it has also increased competition and inequality. Thus, globalisation is both an economic and social process that influences various aspects of people’s lives.
2. Mention any two major dimensions of globalisation.
Answer:
Globalisation has several dimensions, but the most important are economic and cultural globalisation. Economic globalisation refers to the integration of national economies through international trade, foreign investment, and multinational companies. It creates opportunities for economic growth and employment. Cultural globalisation involves the exchange of ideas, values, lifestyles, food habits, music, and entertainment across countries. It promotes cultural interaction and diversity but may also weaken local traditions. These dimensions influence society by changing consumption patterns, work culture, communication methods, and social relationships. Together, they contribute to increasing interdependence among nations and societies across the world.
3. How has technology contributed to globalisation?
Answer:
Technology has played a crucial role in promoting globalisation. Innovations in communication technologies such as the internet, smartphones, satellite television, and social media have enabled people to exchange information instantly across the globe. Improvements in transportation, including air travel and shipping, have made the movement of goods and people faster and cheaper. Businesses can now operate internationally with ease. Technology has also facilitated online education, digital banking, and global employment opportunities. As a result, countries are more interconnected than ever before. Therefore, technological development acts as a major driving force behind the rapid expansion of globalisation.
4. What is meant by Liberalisation?
Answer:
Liberalisation refers to the removal or reduction of government restrictions on economic activities. It allows businesses greater freedom to operate, encourages competition, and attracts foreign investment. In India, liberalisation began with the economic reforms of 1991. These reforms reduced trade barriers, simplified regulations, and opened various sectors to private and foreign participation. Liberalisation aimed to increase efficiency, improve productivity, and boost economic growth. It has led to greater consumer choice and increased employment opportunities in some sectors. However, it has also created challenges for small producers who face competition from large national and international companies.
5. What are Multinational Corporations (MNCs)?
Answer:
Multinational Corporations (MNCs) are companies that operate in more than one country. They establish production units, offices, or business operations across different nations. MNCs invest capital, introduce advanced technology, and create employment opportunities. In India, many MNCs entered after economic liberalisation and contributed to the growth of sectors such as information technology, telecommunications, and manufacturing. They help integrate local economies with global markets. However, critics argue that MNCs may dominate local industries and influence consumer preferences. Despite these concerns, MNCs remain important agents of globalisation and economic development worldwide.
6. Explain the impact of globalisation on employment.
Answer:
Globalisation has significantly affected employment patterns. It has created new job opportunities in sectors such as information technology, business process outsourcing (BPO), telecommunications, and finance. Many Indian professionals now work for global companies and serve international markets. However, globalisation has also increased competition, leading some traditional industries and small businesses to struggle. Workers may face job insecurity due to outsourcing and changing market conditions. Skilled workers generally benefit more from globalisation than unskilled workers. Therefore, while globalisation has expanded employment opportunities, it has also highlighted the need for education, training, and skill development.
7. How has globalisation influenced Indian culture?
Answer:
Globalisation has influenced Indian culture by increasing exposure to international lifestyles, media, fashion, food, and entertainment. People today can access global cultural products through television, movies, the internet, and social media. This has encouraged cultural exchange and diversity. At the same time, Indian culture has also spread globally through yoga, Bollywood films, cuisine, and festivals. However, some sociologists believe that excessive influence of foreign cultures may weaken local traditions and values. Despite these concerns, Indian society has generally adapted by blending global influences with local customs, creating a unique cultural mix.
8. What is Cultural Homogenisation?
Answer:
Cultural homogenisation refers to the process through which different societies become culturally similar due to global influences. As people across the world consume similar products, watch the same media content, and adopt common lifestyles, cultural differences may reduce. Global brands, movies, music, and fashion contribute to this process. Critics argue that homogenisation can threaten local traditions, languages, and cultural identities. However, supporters believe it promotes global understanding and interaction. In reality, societies often combine global influences with local traditions, creating new cultural forms rather than completely abandoning their original identities.
9. What is Glocalisation?
Answer:
Glocalisation refers to the adaptation of global products, services, or ideas to suit local cultures and preferences. It combines the words “global” and “local.” Companies often modify their products to meet local tastes and traditions. For example, international food chains in India offer vegetarian options and dishes suited to Indian preferences. Glocalisation shows that globalisation does not always replace local cultures; instead, local communities actively adapt and reshape global influences. This process allows societies to maintain their cultural identity while participating in the global economy. Thus, glocalisation demonstrates the interaction between global and local forces.
10. How has globalisation affected consumption patterns?
Answer:
Globalisation has transformed consumption patterns by increasing the availability of products from around the world. Consumers now have access to a wider range of goods, including electronics, clothing, food items, and services. Advertising and global media influence consumer choices and lifestyles. Online shopping and digital platforms have further expanded access to global markets. While consumers benefit from greater variety and quality, increased consumerism may encourage excessive spending and environmental concerns. Globalisation has therefore changed not only what people buy but also how they perceive status, lifestyle, and personal identity.
11. What role do the media play in globalisation?
Answer:
Media are powerful agents of globalisation. Television, films, newspapers, social media, and the internet enable the rapid flow of information and ideas across countries. Media connect people to global events, cultures, and lifestyles. They influence public opinion, consumer behaviour, and cultural preferences. Through media, people become aware of international developments and opportunities. At the same time, media can spread dominant cultural values that may overshadow local traditions. Therefore, media play a dual role by promoting global awareness and communication while also shaping cultural and social changes in societies worldwide.
12. Explain the relationship between globalisation and migration.
Answer:
Globalisation has increased migration by creating greater opportunities for work, education, and business across national boundaries. Improved transportation and communication have made international movement easier. Many skilled professionals from India migrate to other countries for better employment opportunities. At the same time, globalisation encourages the exchange of knowledge, skills, and cultural experiences. Migrants often send remittances that support their families and contribute to national economies. However, migration can also lead to challenges such as brain drain and cultural adjustment difficulties. Thus, globalisation and migration are closely connected processes.
13. How has globalisation affected agriculture in India?
Answer:
Globalisation has influenced Indian agriculture by connecting farmers to global markets and introducing new technologies. Farmers can access improved seeds, machinery, and agricultural practices. Export opportunities for agricultural products have also increased. However, Indian farmers face competition from international producers, which can affect prices and incomes. Dependence on global markets may expose farmers to fluctuations in demand and prices. Small and marginal farmers often face greater challenges than large producers. Therefore, while globalisation offers opportunities for agricultural growth, it also creates risks that require supportive government policies.
14. What is the impact of globalisation on education?
Answer:
Globalisation has expanded educational opportunities through international collaboration, digital learning platforms, and access to global knowledge. Students can now study online, participate in international programmes, and gain exposure to global perspectives. Educational institutions increasingly focus on skills such as communication, technology, and critical thinking to meet global employment demands. However, unequal access to quality education and digital resources remains a challenge. Urban students often benefit more than rural students. Despite these inequalities, globalisation has played an important role in modernising education and preparing students for a globally connected world.
15. How does globalisation affect social inequality?
Answer:
Globalisation can both reduce and increase social inequality. It creates opportunities for economic growth, employment, and skill development. Individuals with education and specialised skills often benefit significantly. However, those lacking resources, education, or access to technology may not enjoy the same advantages. As a result, income differences between social groups can widen. Rural populations, small producers, and unskilled workers may face difficulties competing in global markets. Therefore, while globalisation promotes development, it can also increase social and economic disparities if appropriate measures are not taken to ensure inclusive growth.
16. What are the positive effects of globalisation?
Answer:
Globalisation has several positive effects. It promotes economic growth by encouraging trade, investment, and technological advancement. Consumers benefit from greater product variety and improved services. It creates employment opportunities, particularly in sectors such as information technology and telecommunications. Globalisation also facilitates cultural exchange, educational cooperation, and international understanding. Improved communication enables people to access information quickly and connect with others worldwide. Furthermore, countries can learn from each other’s experiences and innovations. These benefits have contributed to social and economic development in many parts of the world, including India.
17. What are the negative effects of globalisation?
Answer:
Despite its benefits, globalisation also has negative effects. It can increase social and economic inequalities by favouring skilled workers and large businesses. Small industries may struggle to compete with multinational corporations. Cultural traditions and local identities may be weakened due to the spread of global consumer culture. Environmental problems can arise from increased industrial production and resource exploitation. Job insecurity may increase as companies relocate operations to reduce costs. Therefore, while globalisation promotes development and connectivity, it also creates challenges that require careful regulation and balanced policy measures.
18. How has globalisation influenced family life?
Answer:
Globalisation has brought significant changes to family life. Increased employment opportunities, urbanisation, and migration have altered traditional family structures. Nuclear families have become more common in many urban areas. Communication technologies help family members stay connected despite geographical distances. Exposure to global values has influenced attitudes toward gender roles, marriage, and parenting. Women’s participation in education and employment has increased, contributing to greater independence. However, work pressures and migration may reduce family interaction. Thus, globalisation has transformed family relationships while creating both opportunities and challenges for family life.
19. What is the role of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in globalisation?
Answer:
The World Trade Organization (WTO) is an international organization that regulates global trade among countries. It aims to promote free and fair trade by reducing trade barriers and resolving trade disputes. The WTO establishes rules that member countries agree to follow. By encouraging international trade, it supports economic integration and globalisation. India is a member of the WTO and participates in negotiations related to trade and development. While supporters believe the WTO promotes economic growth, critics argue that developing countries may face disadvantages in certain trade agreements. Nevertheless, the WTO remains an important institution in the global economy.
20. Why is globalisation considered a complex process?
Answer:
Globalisation is considered a complex process because it affects economic, political, social, and cultural aspects of life simultaneously. Its impact varies across countries, communities, and individuals. While some people benefit through employment, education, and improved living standards, others may experience inequality, job insecurity, or cultural change. Globalisation involves interactions among governments, businesses, international organisations, and ordinary citizens. It creates opportunities as well as challenges. Therefore, sociologists view globalisation as a multidimensional process that cannot be understood only in economic terms. Its effects depend on local conditions, policies, and social structures.