ABSTRACT

The process of globalization has brought about countless changes in societies, communities, regions and economies across the globe. It has been analyzed from many perspectives as a result and much has been written to muddy the waters of our understanding of this important concept. In going back to the real origins of the global economy, this book demonstrates that understanding this phenomenon as a, 'battle against time' will bring a new clarity to the subject.

The process of globalization was accompanied by the mastering of ‘social time’, thereby producing a progressive increase in the speed of business transactions, both in manufacturing and in services. The context is the development of international trade in western societies and the creation of business institutions to drive forward growth. The account takes a ‘long view’, beginning with early European exploration in the B.C. period, and ending with the establishment of multinational enterprises in the 20th century.

Using an impressive range of sources this unique book will be valuable reading for students and academics involved with the study of international business, economic history, business history and politics, among other disciplines.

chapter |22 pages

Introduction

chapter 1|9 pages

The Coordination of Time

part I|95 pages

Terrestrial globalization

chapter 2|36 pages

Exploring the Globe

chapter 3|20 pages

The Emergence of Temporalities

chapter 4|37 pages

The Age of Merchant Capitalism

part II|130 pages

Industrial globalization

chapter 6|11 pages

Politics and Time

chapter 7|21 pages

Speed in Transport and Industry

chapter 8|32 pages

Time and Motion

chapter 9|19 pages

Time and Emotion

chapter 10|19 pages

The Accelerated Transfer of People and Cargo

part III|106 pages

Electronic globalization

chapter 11|12 pages

Information and Communication Revolution

chapter 12|21 pages

The Japanese Miracle and Just-in-Time

chapter 13|26 pages

Flexitime 1

chapter 14|35 pages

Time and Cultures

chapter 15|10 pages

Epilog