Which term describes the pattern of increasing global economic, cultural, and political connections since the late 20th century?

• A. Globalization
• B. Isolationism
• C. Mercantilism
• D. Feudalism

Answer: (A)

Globalization describes the pattern of increasingly interconnected economies, cultures, and political systems across the world, a trend that intensified from the late 20th century as technologies like the internet and transportation improved, trade barriers fell, and international institutions and agreements expanded. It captures how goods, services, money, ideas, and people move across borders, creating a more integrated global system—from multinational companies and global supply chains to cross-cultural exchange and cooperative efforts on global issues. Isolationism points toward reducing foreign ties rather than expanding them; mercantilism is an early modern economic doctrine focused on accumulating wealth through a favorable balance of trade, often via protectionism; feudalism is a medieval social order with localized loyalties that does not describe global linkages.