Globalization and Diversity
The book Globalization and Diversity carefully analyzes the continent of Asia to determine the vast cultural differences and identify unifying factors. By breaking down the continent into distinct regions, the author identifies geographical factors that contribute to environmental and social concerns.
Central Asia
After the Soviet Union dissolved, Central Asia became a more solid world power. Globalization and Diversity examines this region by breaking it down into several key regions; Mongolia, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan (Rowntree, Lewis, Price & Wyckoff, 2011). Although the area has grown since the end of the Soviet Union many issues still affect these regions. Terrorism, war, mass migration, and gender inequality are still prevalent.
The environmental geography of Central Asia consists of many steppes, lakes, and deserts (Rowntree et al., 2011). Geopolitical issues include issues regarding Communism and tension between borders. Central Asia remains one of the poorest areas of the world according to social and economic statistics. The area is however, a rich source of gas and oil that accounts for much of their economy. Environmental concerns include land erosion and the shrinking of the Aral Sea. Some attribute this erosion to efforts to mine and drill the region.
Islam is the most prominent religion. China attempted to slow the spread of Islam by adopting a no religion policy. Common languages include Turkish, Mongolian, and Russian (Rowntree et al., 2011). Social concerns are still common, such as the inequality of women and workers. War has led to the disruption of life in many of these areas and has greatly affected attempts at educational and economic endeavors.
East Asia
East Asia is made up of China, Japan, South Korea, North Korea, and Taiwan (Rowntree, et al., 2011). East Asia is one of the most heavily populated areas in the world. The environmental geology of China is made up of many mountains, steppe lands, plateaus, and deserts. Japan is an island made up of four main islands and countless smaller ones. Korea is considered a peninsula and has many natural resources.
China alone has nearly 1.3 billion citizens (Rowntree et al., 2011). This large population, along with large scale industrial growth has contributed to this area’s environmental problems. One major conflict is the three gorges controversy. This waterway is essential for the transportation of goods throughout China. The government is currently hoping to gain control of this waterway to avoid flooding and implement a hydroelectric system. One of the world’s largest hydroelectric dam is currently on this river, but as a result has endangered many fauna species in the area (Rowntre et al., 2011).
Politically there is tension between North and South Korea. The countries in the area also harbor suspicions about Japan. Communism is still prevalent throughout China and North Korea and prevents many freedoms of expression in these cultures. Buddhism and Confucianism are the two most prevalent religions. The area is relatively economically sound.
South Asia
South Asia is comprised of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives (Rowntree et al., 2011). The geography of the region has many high mountains, and ranges from arid deserts to wet rainforests. With a Monsoon climate, this area is typically regarded as one of the wettest areas of the world. Monsoons have led to environmental degradation over time.
India is a highly populated area that is fraught with economic and social concerns. Poor sanitation has resulted in a high mortality rate. India and Pakistan have had long standing tension. There are also ethnic tensions between these regions. Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism are the most prevalent religions in the area. There also remains a poor education system and lack of protection for women and children.
South East Asia
Southeast Asia is comprised on Burma, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, East Timor, Indonesia, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Singapore (Rowntree et al., 2011). The area is typically defined by its tropical climate with heavily forested areas. Monsoons attribute to the wet environment.
Population varies, but the most heavily populated area is Indonesia. The area boasts a diverse cultural heritage. The most common religions are Islam and Buddhism. These countries have recently formed the Association of South East Asian Nations in an effort to unify this diversity to a more singular cultural identity (Rowntree et al., 2011). This effort has been a cause of concern for some citizens who fear that beliefs will be imposed on them.
Environmental concerns involve deforestation, the rise of sea levels due to global warming, and destruction due to the Monsoon. Economically the area has not been very successful. China remains their main trading partner. These regions rely primarily on agriculture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the continent of Asia is very diverse and host to a wide range of cultures, religions, and levels of economic prowess. Some areas are very desolate and rural, while others are highly urbanized and populated like China. Asia’s land is as diverse as its people, ranging from arid deserts to dense rainforests.
References:
Rowntree, L., Lewis, M., Price, M., & Wyckoff, W. (2011). Globalization and diversity: Geography of a changing world. (3rd ed.). Pearson Education.
