Globalization, as defined by the Cambridge American English dictionary, is “the development of closer economic, cultural, and political relations among all the countries of the world as a result of travel and communication becoming easy”. It goes on to state, “Optimists say globalization means more cultural choices for everyone”. In this paper we will examine two non- Western cultures and their response to globalization. “As globalization has had its positive impact on the society where it has shortened the distances between people of different religions and cultures, conversely it has also had negative effects on the culture as people tend to adopt western culture leaving their own culture and heritage behind.” (Anthropology, 2012) Prior to 1979, China had been closed off from the west. Chinese government was resistant to western influence and change. In 1979 Chinese government saw an opportunity in global trade, opening its borders to the western world and its influence. “Prior to being exposed to Western culture, China was a strong and prosperous empire and was the dominant political and cultural power in East Asia.” (Anthropology, 2012) With Globalization comes westernization and influence on all aspects of life, including culture and customs, dress and fashion, hairstyles, language, music and even construction. Western customs are embraced by the younger generations who see them as modern and exciting, rather than boring or obsolete.
Traditional Chinese dress of cheongsams and coats has been replaced by western styles of jeans and t-shirts with Chinese designs. The traditional Chinese hairstyle of pigtails has been replaced by western hairstyles and dye colors. Traditional Pavilions, and the Chinese Lou and Chinese Ge have been replaced with western influenced skyscrapers. “The astonishing range of music which is played,
