CH-34 Themes in Contemporary World History: Into the 21st Century – World History in Brief: Major Patterns of Change and Continuity : Exam Guide

Chapter 34 Themes in Contemporary World History: Into the 21st Century Multiple-Choice Questions 1) In the 21st century, the United States spent ________ percent of the world’s total military expenditures. A) 43 B) 47 C) 51 D) 69 Answer: C Rationale: The United States spent approximately 51% of the world's total military expenditures in the 21st century, making it the largest military spender globally. This significant allocation of resources underscores the country's role as a dominant force in global military affairs. 2) The purpose of the European Union was to A) create a single European government. B) stimulate growth and integrate European economies. C) generate political stability among members. C) provide opposition to China. Answer: B Rationale: The European Union was established primarily to stimulate growth and integrate the economies of European nations. By fostering economic cooperation and removing trade barriers, the EU aimed to promote prosperity and competitiveness among its member states. 3) Critics of ________ worried about the effects of environmental damage and loss of jobs. A) NATO B) the EU C) NAFTA D) the Iraq War Answer: C Rationale: Critics of NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) expressed concerns about its impact on environmental standards and job losses, particularly in industries facing increased competition from foreign markets. NAFTA's provisions were seen as potentially leading to environmental degradation and displacement of workers. 4) The conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina ended because A) of diplomatic pressure from western Europe, the United States, and Russia. B) an international military force intervened and imposed an uneasy peace. C) negotiations between military leaders resulted in a ceasefire. D) Milosevic was elected. Answer: B Rationale: The conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina ended largely due to the intervention of an international military force, which enforced peace agreements and stabilized the region. The presence of peacekeeping troops helped prevent further violence and facilitate negotiations towards a lasting settlement. 5) The ________ contributed to the economic acceleration of China in the 20th century. A) loosening of state regulations B) conversion of sugar cane to fuel for domestic use and some export C) introduction of more market opportunities D) decline of rural poverty Answer: C Rationale: The introduction of more market opportunities, including economic reforms such as the opening up of trade and investment, played a significant role in China's economic acceleration in the 20th century. These reforms encouraged foreign investment, stimulated growth in key industries, and fostered export-oriented development strategies. 6) Children comprised ________ percent of the labor force in 1990. A) 3 B) 6 C) 11 D) 14 Answer: A Rationale: In 1990, children comprised approximately 3% of the labor force globally. This statistic highlights the prevalence of child labor in various industries and regions, indicating a concerning issue that requires attention from policymakers and international organizations. 7) In the 20th century, countries with rapidly expanding economics continued to experience A) labor shortages. B) rural poverty. C) a declining interest by foreign investors. D) political instability. Answer: B Rationale: Despite experiencing rapid economic expansion, many countries in the 20th century continued to grapple with rural poverty. Economic growth did not always translate into improved living standards for rural populations, highlighting persistent challenges related to income inequality, access to resources, and agricultural productivity. 8) When China became the second leading economic power in the world, it replaced A) the United States. B) Germany. C) Saudi Arabia. D) Japan. Answer: D Rationale: When China became the second leading economic power in the world, it surpassed Japan in terms of gross domestic product (GDP) and economic output. This significant milestone reflected China's rapid economic growth and emergence as a global economic powerhouse. 9) ________ emerged as the world language associated with globalization. A) Japanese B) English C) Russian D) German Answer: B Rationale: English emerged as the world language associated with globalization due to its widespread use in international business, diplomacy, science, technology, and popular culture. Its prevalence as a global lingua franca facilitates communication and cooperation across borders in an increasingly interconnected world. 10) By the 1990s the amount of information that could be stored on microchips increased by ________ percent annually. A) 20 B) 40 C) 60 D) 80 Answer: C Rationale: By the 1990s, the amount of information that could be stored on microchips increased by approximately 60% annually. This rapid advancement in semiconductor technology, often referred to as Moore's Law, fueled the growth of the information technology industry and revolutionized computing capabilities. 11) The most admired woman in Muslim Iran in the 90s was A) the daughter of the Supreme Leader. B) a Japanese soap opera heroine. C) a Bollywood movie starlet. D) an American pop singer. Answer: B Rationale: The most admired woman in Muslim Iran in the 90s was a Japanese soap opera heroine. This phenomenon reflects the influence of foreign media and cultural imports in shaping perceptions and preferences in Iranian society during that period. 12) China’s market-Leninist path to industrialization combined A) labor reforms and environmental regulation. B) free market capitalism and autocratic bureaucracy. C) price controls and foreign trade. D) communism and socialism. Answer: B Rationale: China's market-Leninist path to industrialization combined elements of free-market capitalism with an autocratic bureaucratic system. This unique approach allowed for economic liberalization and market-oriented reforms while maintaining political control by the Communist Party. 13) Scientists largely agree that the buildup of ________ in the atmosphere has caused the substantial warming of the Earth. A) carbon dioxide B) carbon monoxide C) particulate matter D) oxygen Answer: A Rationale: Scientists largely agree that the buildup of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere has contributed significantly to global warming and climate change. CO2 is a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to rising temperatures and environmental impacts. 14) Unlike temperate woodlands, rain forests A) grow as fast as they are cut down. B) are the home to many endangered species. C) are unaffected by an increase in global temperature. D) cannot regenerate themselves. Answer: B Rationale: Unlike temperate woodlands, rainforests are the home to many endangered species due to their high biodiversity. Rainforests are ecologically sensitive environments, and deforestation poses a significant threat to their biodiversity and ecological balance. 15) Which country was the exception to failed attempts at democracy in former colonies in the mid-20th century? A) the Philippines B) Brazil C) India D) Indonesia Answer: C Rationale: India was the exception to failed attempts at democracy in former colonies in the mid-20th century. Despite challenges, India successfully established and maintained a democratic system of governance after gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1947. 16) ________ was the final Latin American country, aside from Cuba, to adopt democracy. A) Peru B) Argentina C) Brazil D) Paraguay Answer: D Rationale: Paraguay was the final Latin American country, aside from Cuba, to adopt democracy. The transition to democracy in Paraguay occurred in the late 20th century, following a long period of authoritarian rule under military dictatorships. 17) The 2011 Arab Spring installed a form of democracy in A) Egypt. B) Yemen. C) Libya. D) Syria. Answer: A Rationale: The 2011 Arab Spring led to the installation of a form of democracy in Egypt. The popular uprising in Egypt resulted in the ousting of President Hosni Mubarak and paved the way for democratic reforms, including free and fair elections. 18) According to the text, globalization has created a world in which A) contact with others has become routine. B) contacts have never been so important. C) there are no boundaries. D) there is one world culture. Answer: B Rationale: According to the text, globalization has created a world in which contacts have never been so important. Globalization has intensified interconnectedness and interdependence among nations, leading to increased economic, social, and cultural exchanges on a global scale. 19) Some theorists argue that ________ is reducing people’s tendencies to identify themselves as a member of separate civilization. A) the availability of international employment B) increasing knowledge of multiple languages C) international influences and crosscutting identities D) a rising awareness of other cultures Answer: C Rationale: Some theorists argue that international influences and crosscutting identities are reducing people's tendencies to identify themselves solely based on separate civilizations. Globalization has led to the blurring of cultural boundaries and the emergence of shared identities shaped by diverse cultural influences. 20) One way in which globalization has replaced regional labels is evident in A) downtown areas that have the same products, stores, and restaurants. B) the prevalence of strip malls. C) the spread of nationalism. D) the development of a common currency. Answer: A Rationale: One way in which globalization has replaced regional labels is evident in downtown areas that have the same products, stores, and restaurants. The homogenization of consumer culture in urban centers reflects the influence of globalization in shaping consumer preferences and retail landscapes across regions. 21) The acceleration of globalization is often accompanied by A) a willingness to embrace change B) efforts to reassert separate regional identities C) new alliances and cross-country trade agreements D) hostility and indifference Answer: B Rationale: The acceleration of globalization is often accompanied by efforts to reassert separate regional identities. As globalization fosters increased interconnectedness and cultural exchange, some regions and communities may respond by emphasizing their distinct cultural, linguistic, or ethnic identities as a means of preserving their heritage and autonomy. 22) Despite shifts in technology and organization capacity, world history has long been defined by A) constant war. B) discrimination and exploitation. C) tension between regional features and larger connections. D) conflict between the haves and have-nots. Answer: C Rationale: Despite shifts in technology and organizational capacity, world history has long been defined by tension between regional features and larger connections. This tension reflects the dynamic interplay between local or regional identities, cultures, and interests, and broader global processes such as trade, migration, and diplomacy. 23) Populations that had been dominated by ________ were forced to develop new loyalties by the 1990s. A) imperialism B) Marxism C) capitalism D) Leninism Answer: B Rationale: Populations that had been dominated by Marxism were forced to develop new loyalties by the 1990s. The collapse of the Soviet Union and the Eastern Bloc led to the end of Marxist-Leninist regimes in many countries, prompting shifts in political ideologies and allegiances. 24) The French government has periodically refused to A) put the interests of the European Union above French interests. B) grant political rights to the Islamic minority. C) incorporate English words into the French language. D) sign international human rights treaties. Answer: C Rationale: The French government has periodically refused to incorporate English words into the French language. This reflects France's efforts to preserve the purity of the French language and resist the influence of English-language globalization on French culture and identity. 25) The Chinese government attempted to block Internet sites that A) warned of the dangers of global warming. B) told non-idealized versions of ancient Chinese history. C) displayed pornographic materials. D) promoted democracy. Answer: D Rationale: The Chinese government attempted to block Internet sites that promoted democracy. This censorship reflects the Chinese government's efforts to control information and suppress dissenting political views that challenge the authority of the ruling Communist Party. 26) Which of the following helped Russia exert independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union? A) attempts by leaders to revive the Cold War B) improvements in the Russian economy C) a French-Russian coalition D) the Iraq war Answer: B Rationale: Improvements in the Russian economy helped Russia exert independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Economic reforms and the transition to a market-oriented economy enabled Russia to assert its economic sovereignty and pursue its national interests on the global stage. 27) An upsurge of ethnic conflict after the Cold War can best be explained by which of the following? A) New levels of global interaction increased the potential for group identities to generate hostilities. B) The collapse of Turkey opened the door to a reassertion of ethnic identity. C) Some groups adopted new ideologies such as communism. D) An increase in the overall population resulted in more tension. Answer: A Rationale: An upsurge of ethnic conflict after the Cold War can best be explained by new levels of global interaction increasing the potential for group identities to generate hostilities. Globalization facilitated greater awareness of ethnic, cultural, and religious differences, leading to tensions and conflicts between various ethnic groups seeking to assert their identities and interests. 28) What was the effect of import substitution policies in the 20th century? A) Countries like Turkey and Brazil were able to develop important factory sectors. B) The economies of countries who adopted this policy stagnated and declined near the end of the 20th century. C) The West was able to dominate in areas such as textile manufacturing. D) Countries that practiced import substitution remained dependent on the West for the majority of their needs. Answer: A Rationale: The effect of import substitution policies in the 20th century was that countries like Turkey and Brazil were able to develop important factory sectors. Import substitution industrialization (ISI) aimed to reduce dependence on imported goods by promoting domestic industries, leading to the growth of manufacturing sectors in some countries. 29) Which part of the world did not experience rapid economic development? A) Japan B) western Europe C) sub-Saharan Africa D) Canada Answer: C Rationale: Sub-Saharan Africa did not experience rapid economic development compared to other regions like Japan, western Europe, and Canada. Factors such as political instability, economic mismanagement, and dependence on commodity exports hindered the economic growth and development of many countries in sub-Saharan Africa. 30) Russia and China diverged from the norm of 20th-century globalization by A) opening up their economies to foreign imports in the 1980s. B) focusing primarily on internal economic development in the early and middle decades. C) refusing to participate in key economic forums at the U.N. D) instituting rigorous environmental regulations in the decades following WWII. Answer: B Rationale: Russia and China diverged from the norm of 20th-century globalization by focusing primarily on internal economic development in the early and middle decades. While many countries embraced globalization and participated in global trade and economic integration, Russia and China pursued policies prioritizing domestic economic growth and self-sufficiency. 31) Why did the United States draw extensive international investment in the 1990s? A) High interests rates drew healthy returns for foreign investors. B) The collapse of the Soviet Union created a dearth of other industrial investments. C) The boom in Internet commerce and start-up culture made the U.S. the most promising country for investment. D) Changes in U.S. law made investing in U.S. bonds an effective way for foreign investors to avoid taxation at home. Answer: A Rationale: The United States drew extensive international investment in the 1990s due to high interest rates that offered healthy returns for foreign investors. High interest rates in the U.S. made investment in U.S. assets, such as bonds, attractive for foreign investors seeking favorable returns on their capital. 32) Why did it become apparent in recent decades that communism had been more environmentally damaging than free-market capitalism? A) Communist philosophy evolved to regard natural resources as infinite. B) Access to restricted areas increased for travelers and reporters, allowing them to survey the damage. C) Russia and China refused to participate in global environmental conferences. D) Temperatures increased in a greater-than-average measure in communist and socialist territories. Answer: B Rationale: It became apparent in recent decades that communism had been more environmentally damaging than free-market capitalism because access to restricted areas increased for travelers and reporters, allowing them to survey the damage caused by communist regimes. As restrictions on travel and information dissemination eased, the extent of environmental degradation under communist rule became more widely known. 33) How might tropical and temperate regions be affected differently by climate change? A) Tropical regions might become arid and temperate regions might become tropical. B) Tropical regions might become denser and wetter while temperate regions dry out. C) Tropical regions might be inundated with coastal flooding while temperate regions should remain stable. D) Tropical regions might be unaffected by higher global temperatures while temperate regions will react unpredictably. Answer: A Rationale: Tropical and temperate regions might be affected differently by climate change as tropical regions might become arid, experiencing changes in precipitation patterns, while temperate regions might become tropical, experiencing shifts in temperature and weather patterns. 34) International goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions set at the Kyoto conference A) will likely halt global warming but not reverse the damage that has already occurred. B) will likely reduce global temperature change by two degrees Celsius. C) are not guaranteed to have a positive effect. D) are generally regarded as futile by climate scientists. Answer: C Rationale: International goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions set at the Kyoto conference are not guaranteed to have a positive effect. While efforts to reduce emissions are important, the effectiveness of international agreements such as the Kyoto Protocol in addressing climate change depends on various factors, including global cooperation, technological advancements, and policy implementation. 35) The tide of democracy in the latter half of the 20th century was aided by A) the competitive engine of the Cold War. B) the success of democratic systems in Japan and India. C) the revolution in Iran. D) resource shortages in many authoritarian countries. Answer: B Rationale: The tide of democracy in the latter half of the 20th century was aided by the success of democratic systems in Japan and India. The establishment and success of democratic governance in countries like Japan and India served as positive examples and inspirations for democratic movements worldwide. 36) In which of the following ways did the end of the Cold War accelerate democratic regime change? A) The destruction of the Berlin Wall was finally a possibility. B) The former states of the USSR uniformly turned to democratic government. C) There was no longer a world superpower supportive of authoritarian regimes. D) The United States Congress began actively supporting South American rebels. Answer: C Rationale: The end of the Cold War accelerated democratic regime change because there was no longer a world superpower supportive of authoritarian regimes. With the decline of Soviet influence and the absence of a global ideological rivalry, many authoritarian governments faced increased pressure to democratize due to shifts in international politics and norms. 37) In which of the following ways did Russia show a trend toward authoritarian rule in the 2000s? A) increased top-down control over the economy B) withdrawal from the United Nations C) resumption of aggressive territorial expansion D) new control over the media Answer: D Rationale: Russia showed a trend toward authoritarian rule in the 2000s through new control over the media. Under President Vladimir Putin's leadership, the Russian government tightened its grip on media outlets, restricting freedom of expression and independent journalism, which contributed to a more authoritarian political environment. 38) All of the following are examples of nationalist resistance to globalization EXCEPT A) resistance in some countries to the consumerism and sexuality perceived as being highlighted in many manifestations of globalization, including films and tourism B) resistance among Middle Eastern leaders to the translation of foreign books into Arabic C) European regulation of immigration from Africa, Asia, and the West Indies in the interest of preserving jobs for European workers D) the Chinese government’s attempt to block Internet sites promoting democratic movements Answer: A Rationale: All of the provided options are examples of nationalist resistance to globalization except for resistance in some countries to the consumerism and sexuality perceived as being highlighted in many manifestations of globalization, including films and tourism. This example does not directly relate to nationalist resistance but rather concerns cultural concerns and critiques of globalization's impact on values and norms. 39) Why was the United States hesitant regarding international conventions about war crimes, child labor, and the use of land mines? A) It feared international prosecution for its actions in the Middle East. B) It did not acknowledge that these were legitimate issues of government interest. C) It believed signing these treaties could harm its economic prospects. D) It was concerned that international political agreements could override national laws. Answer: D Rationale: The United States was hesitant regarding international conventions about war crimes, child labor, and the use of land mines because it was concerned that international political agreements could override national laws. The U.S. government was wary of ceding sovereignty or authority to international bodies and preferred to maintain control over its own legal and policy decisions. 40) In what way is religion threatened in the contemporary period? A) Developing regions such as Latin America and Africa are secularizing. B) Scientific and consumerist values have proven directly hostile. C) Contemporary culture is proving an alternative secular value system. D) It is quickly losing influence in the political sphere in many nations. Answer: C Rationale: Religion is threatened in the contemporary period as contemporary culture is proving an alternative secular value system. In many parts of the world, especially in Western societies, secular values associated with scientific advancements, consumerism, and individualism are increasingly challenging the influence and relevance of traditional religious beliefs and practices. 41) The Arab Spring revealed important divisions between A) Western proponents of democracy and supporters of Middle Eastern self-rule based on traditional cultural values. B) secular human rights advocates, religious moderates, and proponents of Islamic law. C) younger generations seeking to westernize government and culture and older generations who prefer stability and community controls. D) proponents of violent and immediate rebellions, autocratic loyalists, and those committed to slow, peaceful transition to more open forms of government. Answer: B Rationale: The Arab Spring revealed important divisions between secular human rights advocates, religious moderates, and proponents of Islamic law. The movement encompassed a spectrum of ideologies and agendas, including secular demands for democracy, religious appeals for Islamic governance, and calls for human rights and civil liberties. These diverse perspectives led to significant divisions and conflicts within societies undergoing political upheaval. 42) Based upon trends in the 1980s, which of the following is clear for the future? A) That democratic trends will continue to spread. B) The future of patriarchy is not certain given changes in gender relations. C) The United States will remain the world’s sole superpower. D) The United States will remain stable. Answer: B Rationale: Based on trends in the 1980s, it is clear for the future that the future of patriarchy is not certain given changes in gender relations. The 1980s saw significant shifts in gender roles and perceptions, including increased participation of women in the workforce, changes in family structures, and growing awareness of gender inequality issues. These trends suggest ongoing transformations in traditional gender dynamics and the potential for further changes in the future. 43) Which of the following current trends has the most potential to radically alter the future? A) globalization B) isolationism C) import substitution D) technology Answer: A Rationale: Globalization has the most potential to radically alter the future among the listed current trends. Globalization encompasses interconnected processes of economic, social, cultural, and technological integration on a global scale, shaping various aspects of human life and society. Its impacts are far-reaching and transformative, affecting economies, cultures, governance structures, and individual lives worldwide. 44) Which of the following is viewed as being oppositional to globalization? A) increased contact between countries B) the ability to travel C) ethnic and regional conflicts D) the European Union Answer: C Rationale: Ethnic and regional conflicts are viewed as being oppositional to globalization. While globalization promotes interconnectedness and collaboration between nations, ethnic and regional conflicts often arise due to tensions over identity, territory, resources, and political power. These conflicts can hinder globalization efforts by disrupting trade, impeding cultural exchange, and undermining political stability. 45) According to the text, which of the following will contribute most to future developments? A) both global and regional events B) global events only C) political developments D) economic developments Answer: A Rationale: According to the text, both global and regional events will contribute most to future developments. Future developments are influenced by a complex interplay of global and regional dynamics, including geopolitical shifts, economic trends, technological advancements, social movements, and environmental changes. These multifaceted factors shape the trajectory of societies, economies, and political systems at both global and local levels. 46) When considering world history, it is clear that A) the future of the world hinges on the fate of superpowers. B) not everyone was part of a major civilization. C) civilizations are easily defined. D) no single civilization had a greater impact than any other. Answer: B Rationale: When considering world history, it is clear that not everyone was part of a major civilization. Throughout history, diverse societies and cultures have existed outside the framework of major civilizations, with unique identities, traditions, and historical trajectories. These noncivilizational societies played significant roles in shaping regional histories and contributing to human cultural diversity. 47) Which of the following characteristics is common to a majority of modern civilizations? A) a prevalence of rising religious fundamentalism B) increasing importance of global professional identities C) general resistance to globalization D) a tendency to embrace the past and eschew new developments Answer: B Rationale: Increasing importance of global professional identities is common to a majority of modern civilizations. In the contemporary world, professional identities and affiliations often transcend national or cultural boundaries, with individuals and organizations identifying more strongly with global professional communities or networks. This trend reflects globalization's impact on professions, education, labor markets, and the interconnectedness of global systems. 48) Which of the following represents a need to create a particular identity in response to globalization? A) the rise of fundamentalism B) the adoption of cross-cultural identities C) an emphasis on work D) declining incidents of terrorism Answer: A Rationale: The rise of fundamentalism represents a need to create a particular identity in response to globalization. Fundamentalist movements often emerge in response to perceived threats to traditional values, cultures, and identities posed by globalization, modernization, and cultural homogenization. These movements seek to assert and preserve specific religious, cultural, or ideological identities in the face of perceived external influences or encroachments. 49) Which statement best characterizes the development of income inequality in the 1990s? A) The top third of the world’s population grew richer as the bottom two-thirds lost ground, though gaps between countries were shrinking. B) The income gaps between the richest and the poorest within individual nations was shrinking in most developing nations, even as the income inequality between rich and poor nations exploded. C) The top quarter of the world’s population grew richer as the bottom three-quarters lost ground, and gaps between countries were rising steadily. D) The income gaps between the richest and the poorest within individual nations increased rapidly, though the inequality between developing and mature economies was decreasing rapidly. Answer: C Rationale: The statement that best characterizes the development of income inequality in the 1990s is that the top quarter of the world’s population grew richer as the bottom three-quarters lost ground, and gaps between countries were rising steadily. Despite some improvements in income levels in certain developing nations, overall global income inequality worsened during the 1990s, with wealth concentrating among the wealthiest individuals and countries. 50) Which statement best characterizes the difference between Chinese and Western notions about the progress of history? A) Chinese scholars developed a cyclical approach to history, in which past eras and trends repeat themselves, while Western scholars believed that culture always changed in a positive direction. B) Chinese scholars developed a nihilistic approach to history, in which past occurrences have no meaning in and of themselves, while Western scholars believed that the divine or natural emergence of a ruling class would always shape events. C) Chinese scholars developed a progressive approach to history, in which new rulers learned from past mistakes and constantly improved the system, while Western scholars believed that new forms of government must always arise after periods of stagnation. D) Chinese scholars developed a Confucian approach to history, in which developments in bureaucracy and culture were more important than all other factors, while Western scholars believed that the progress of martial skill would always determine the course of history. Answer: A Rationale: The statement that best characterizes the difference between Chinese and Western notions about the progress of history is that Chinese scholars developed a cyclical approach to history, in which past eras and trends repeat themselves, while Western scholars believed that culture always changed in a positive direction. Traditional Chinese historiography often conceptualizes history as cyclical, with recurring patterns of rise and fall, whereas Western historical thought tends to emphasize linear progression and the advancement of civilization over time. Short Answer Questions 51) What are some identities that have emerged in the 21st century? How have recent developments influenced them? Answer: Some identities that have emerged in the 21st century include digital nomads, ecoconscious consumers, LGBTQ+ activists, and global citizens. Recent developments such as advances in technology, climate change awareness, and increased interconnectedness have influenced these identities. For example, digital nomads have emerged due to the rise of remote work facilitated by technology, while eco-conscious consumers have been influenced by growing concerns about environmental sustainability. LGBTQ+ activists have gained visibility and support through social media and online communities, contributing to the advancement of LGBTQ+ rights globally. The concept of global citizenship has also gained traction as people become more aware of global issues and interconnectedness, transcending national boundaries in their sense of belonging and responsibility. 52) How might globalization countercurrents affect globalization? Answer: Globalization countercurrents can affect globalization by challenging or resisting dominant trends of economic, cultural, and political integration. These countercurrents may manifest as movements advocating for protectionism, cultural preservation, or national sovereignty against perceived threats posed by globalization. They can slow down or reverse certain aspects of globalization by promoting policies and practices aimed at limiting international trade, restricting immigration, or preserving traditional cultural practices. Additionally, globalization countercurrents may lead to increased polarization and fragmentation, creating tensions between globalist and anti-globalist forces within societies and on the international stage. 53) What are some of the largest sources of greenhouse gases, and why do they pose such difficult problems? Answer: Some of the largest sources of greenhouse gases include fossil fuel combustion (from vehicles, power plants, and industrial processes), deforestation and land-use changes, agricultural activities (such as livestock farming and rice cultivation), and industrial processes (including cement production). These sources pose difficult problems because greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), contribute to global warming and climate change by trapping heat in the Earth's atmosphere. The accumulation of greenhouse gases leads to rising temperatures, melting ice caps, sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and disruptions to ecosystems and biodiversity. Addressing these problems requires coordinated international efforts to reduce emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, protect and restore forests, and adopt sustainable agricultural practices. 54) In what way is the economic promise of capitalism in new democracies a double-edged sword? Answer: The economic promise of capitalism in new democracies is a double-edged sword because while it offers opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and prosperity, it also brings challenges and risks. Capitalism can lead to widening income inequality, exploitation of labor, environmental degradation, and social disparities within new democracies. The pursuit of profit and economic efficiency may prioritize short-term gains over long-term sustainability and social welfare. Additionally, unregulated capitalism can result in market failures, financial crises, and corporate monopolies that undermine democratic institutions and values. While capitalism has the potential to drive economic development and improve living standards, it requires effective regulation, social safety nets, and inclusive policies to mitigate its negative consequences and ensure equitable distribution of benefits. 55) In what ways have religious developments defied the expectations of many observers earlier in the 20th century? Answer: Religious developments in the 20th century have defied the expectations of many observers by witnessing both resurgence and transformation of religious movements worldwide. Contrary to expectations of secularization and the decline of religion, the 20th century saw the revival of religious fundamentalism, the spread of evangelical Christianity, and the resurgence of Islam as a political force. These developments challenged the assumption that modernization and globalization would lead to the marginalization of religion in public life. Furthermore, religious movements have played significant roles in shaping political ideologies, social movements, and conflicts, defying predictions of religion's diminishing influence in the modern world. Additionally, the 20th century witnessed the emergence of new religious movements and spiritual practices, reflecting diverse expressions of faith and spirituality in response to changing social, cultural, and environmental contexts. Essay Questions 56) What are some responses to globalization and why are they occurring? Answer: Some responses to globalization include resistance, adaptation, and hybridization. These responses occur due to various factors such as cultural preservation, economic protectionism, and political sovereignty concerns. Resistance to globalization often stems from fears of cultural homogenization, loss of traditional values, and exploitation by global economic forces. Adaptation involves the integration of global influences into local cultures and economies, often driven by the desire for economic growth and modernization. Hybridization occurs when elements of different cultures blend together to create new cultural forms and identities, reflecting the interconnected nature of global societies. These responses to globalization are occurring as individuals, communities, and nations seek to navigate the complexities of globalization while preserving their identities, interests, and values. 57) Given what we know about forecasting the future, how should we assess the potential impact of globalization? Answer: Assessing the potential impact of globalization requires considering various factors, including economic, social, cultural, and political trends, as well as potential disruptions and challenges. While forecasting the future is inherently uncertain, analyzing historical patterns, current trajectories, and emerging issues can provide insights into potential impacts. Additionally, scenario planning, risk assessments, and modeling techniques can help identify potential outcomes and their likelihoods. It is essential to recognize the interconnected and dynamic nature of globalization, acknowledging that its effects can be complex, multifaceted, and often unpredictable. Moreover, engaging in informed dialogue, collaborative decisionmaking, and adaptive strategies can help mitigate risks and harness the opportunities presented by globalization. 58) How did cultural globalization promote the standing of the West, and what were some exceptions to Western cultural dominance? What were perceived negative results of this new global cultural exchange? Answer: Cultural globalization promoted the standing of the West by disseminating Western cultural products, such as films, music, fashion, and consumer brands, to global audiences through media, technology, and trade networks. Western cultural dominance was reinforced by the economic and political power of Western nations, as well as the appeal of Western lifestyles and values portrayed in popular culture. However, some exceptions to Western cultural dominance emerged, including the resurgence of indigenous cultures, the revitalization of nonWestern traditions, and the rise of hybrid cultural forms that blend Western and local elements. Perceived negative results of this new global cultural exchange include cultural homogenization, the loss of linguistic diversity, the erosion of traditional values, and the marginalization of nonWestern voices and perspectives. Critics argue that cultural globalization can lead to cultural imperialism, inequality, and the commodification of culture, undermining cultural diversity and local identities. 59) How could rising sea levels affect the course of civilization? Are there any potential positive results? Answer: Rising sea levels could profoundly affect the course of civilization by inundating coastal areas, displacing populations, disrupting ecosystems, and threatening infrastructure, agriculture, and freshwater supplies. Coastal cities, agricultural lands, and low-lying island nations are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of rising sea levels, which can lead to increased flooding, erosion, saltwater intrusion, and storm surges. The displacement of populations and loss of land could exacerbate social tensions, trigger conflicts, and amplify economic inequalities. However, there may be potential positive results, such as increased awareness of climate change, innovation in coastal adaptation measures, and opportunities for international cooperation to mitigate and adapt to sea-level rise. Additionally, rising sea levels could spur investments in renewable energy, sustainable development, and climate-resilient infrastructure, fostering long-term environmental stewardship and societal resilience. 60) In what ways did rising Middle Eastern and Latin American democracies alter the development and perception of democracy in the 21st century? Do the unique characteristics of these democracies make them stronger or weaker? Answer: Rising Middle Eastern and Latin American democracies altered the development and perception of democracy in the 21st century by challenging prevailing assumptions about democracy's compatibility with cultural, religious, and historical contexts. These democracies introduced new models of governance that incorporated indigenous practices, Islamic principles, and socialist ideals, demonstrating the diversity and adaptability of democratic systems. While some Middle Eastern and Latin American democracies faced challenges such as political instability, corruption, and social inequality, their unique characteristics, including cultural diversity, grassroots movements, and participatory governance, contributed to their resilience and capacity for reform. The experiences of these democracies underscored the importance of inclusive institutions, civil society engagement, and democratic experimentation in strengthening democratic governance and promoting social justice. Despite facing obstacles and setbacks, rising Middle Eastern and Latin American democracies have enriched the global discourse on democracy and contributed to its ongoing evolution. Test Bank for World History in Brief: Major Patterns of Change and Continuity Peter N. Stearns 9780205896301, 9780134085623