ABSTRACT
Contemporary discourse of globalization, a phenomenon that adds cognitive, temporal, and spatial dimensions to transnational interdependence of peoples and nations, raises issues that are reminiscent of the standards of civilization of people of radically different cultures. Such discourses informed Europe’s perceptions of itself and the “other” and the notion of “civilization” versus “savagery” that emerged in the nineteenth century. The cognitive dimension of globalization fosters the exchange of ideas and experiences by like-minded groups across transcontinental distances. This, for instance, would enable feminists and gender activists in North America or Europe to share their experiences and perspectives with African or Asian feminists. The question whether this exchange of ideas across cultures operates on a level playing field with equal respect for all cultures, and devoid of cultural imperialistic fingerprints, is now intensely debated.
