ABSTRACT
Regional balance, or imbalance, has been a critical aspect of globalization in every phase, and this also remains true today. Thus, intellectuals in contemporary China divide over whether globalization is a benefit or a curse, with some claiming that China can find greater world voice as well as prosperity through participating in globalization. Historical analysis also does not resolve what might be an even more basic issue: whether globalization has, overall, had good or bad effects on the world at large. The historical perspective certainly shows why there are so many arguments, among scholars, activists, and ordinary people alike, about the pros and cons of globalization. Global agreements have successfully addressed some problems, like the threats to the ozone layer, but basic deteriorations continue despite promising international conferences. Issues of weapons control and epidemic disease may also call for new global approaches.
