(Neo)-Colonialism, globalised modernisation and global energy and environment: A review of available opportunities and their threats to globalisation

Abstract

This review looks at three issues which are key to the process of globalisation, namely; colonialism, modernization, energy and environment. The benefits of globalised colonialism, though very weak, may include a few of the following, viz: Increasing knowledge sharing, research, and skills; providing platforms for mutual support, and benefits to synergize at various levels; encouraging multi-cultural contributions at different levels; fostering global citizenship for greater harmony; promoting multiculturalism and acceptance to cultural diversity; facilitating multi ways communications and interactions; promoting self-employment, digital entrepreneurship, and outreach; and giving voice to everyone by promoting common language. On the contrary, the notable negative impacts of globalised colonialism include: increasing the technological gaps and digital divides; creating more legitimate opportunities for electronic colonialism; exploiting local resources and destroying local/ indigenous cultures; increasing inequalities, conflicts, and clashes; promoting cultural imperialism; strengthening a symmetrical communication, facilitating haves; contributing to jobless growth and promoting outsourcing; and, it is promoting voiceless growth and language imperialism. It important to note that energy is a driving factor in the world economic development, World energy consumption contributes to pollution and environmental deterioration and global house emissions which therefore calls upon world economist and politicians to set environmental regulations. It’s also crucial to transform the current energy systems with a transition to renewable source and their efficient use. For example, globalized modernization has today has become a major sort of debate among academicians, policy makers and NGOs. Finally, our review notes the various merits of globalized modernization over weighs its demerit hence digital migration and modernization should be embraced by all.