This paper views globalization through the lenses of the economic theory of comparative advantage and the philosophy of neoliberalism and its alternatives. It also questions the utility of comparative advantage in the present global world economic environment. It examines and assesses the role that the World Bank, International Money Fund (IMF), and the World Trade Organization (WTO) play in the controversy surrounding globalization, with special attention to free trade and fair trade. Research indicators of progress towards the United Nation’s Millennium Goals are reviewed and strategies to insure their success are presented. The paper concludes with an agenda for positive social change action as a counterbalance to potential negative effects of globalization. The Electronic References for Global Social Change at the end of the paper provide an opportunity to assist readers with common goals to engage in social change activities through a virtual global community that is readably available on the internet.

Download Article (pdf)

Keywords: Globalization; neoliberalism; hegemony; free trade; fair trade; World Bank, World Trade Organization; International Money Fund.

Volume 1, 2006