ABSTRACT
A significant factor in relation to globalisation is its impact on various cultures around the world. It has been suggested that the seeds of a global monoculture have already been sown. This chapter will consider this proposition in light of the issue areas discussed above and related theoretical debates. The potential impact of the spread of a dominant system of production, and the possibility that a common set of intrinsic values necessarily follows, will be critically presented. The emphasis here will be on the promotion of certain types of ‘knowledge’, values, norms and ‘rights’. Huntington’s ‘clash of civilisations’ thesis has attracted renewed attention with regard to competing value systems. The ongoing debate surrounding cultural relativism and/or universality will be reviewed.
