Globalization an ambiguous albeit very familiar term, nowadays infers a wide spectrum of meanings. Recently brainiacs have narrowed the focus of this concept and now view globalization as the, "fundamental changes in the spatial and temporal contours of social existence" (Stanford University). Distance is traditionally measured by the time it takes to get from Point A to Point B. As this time decreases so, essentially does the distance. From this idea, it is possible to reach the conclusion that the human experience is changing as the concept of space and boundaries are altered. Whew.
Using this notion that geography (in its traditional sense) is becoming increasingly peripheral, International Networks Archive has adopted a new means of mapping the world: Information Mapping. Motivated by the framework of 'network analysis' this Princeton-based group seeks to link the global community through areas that transcend national boundaries (Eg. education, water, the tobacco trade, and even the good ol' Golden Arches/Green Bean Shop). This is all done not only as an effort to trace the ever-changing shape of the world, but a to better understand the complex web of relationships that is emerging.
Its cool, trust me.
Here are a few examples....
NB: Jonathan Harris, current object of my affection, was a participant in this during his Ivy League days. *sigh*
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