Globalization and Culture : Global Melange

A clear, concise, and accessible overview of how culture is affected by and in turn affects globalization.

This seminal text disputes the view that we are experiencing a “clash of civilizations” as well as the idea that globalization leads to cultural homogenization. Instead, Jan Nederveen Pieterse argues that we are witnessing the formation of a global mélange culture through processes of cultural mixing or hybridization. From this perspective on globalization, conflict may be mitigated and identity preserved, albeit transformed. Through numerous updates in the Fifth edition, the author focuses on the key issue of agency and power in hybridization. Throughout, the book offers a comprehensive treatment of hybridization arguments, and in discussing globalization and culture, problematizes the meaning of culture. This historically deep and geographically wide approach to globalization is essential reading as we face the increasing spread of conflicts bred by cultural misunderstanding.