ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the discernible patterns, structures or shapes of globalized knowledge flows. It argues that they are not symmetrical between the different parts or regions of the globalized world but rather asymmetrical, reflecting associated inequalities of resources and capacities and also imbalances of political and economic power. The asymmetries of globalized knowledge flows tend to parallel the inequalities associated with the practices of Western dominance. While asymmetric knowledge flows are a core aspect of globalization, the fact of globalization itself provides opportunities for those caught in its net to address the neglect, marginalization and undermining of local knowledge. The concept of 'knowledge flow' refers to clusters of ideas, practices, modes of thinking, customs, agendas and routines that facilitate and expedite effects, outcomes, results and problem solving in other places and at other times.
