Interdependence

Introduction

    Interdependence refers to the interconnectedness of all living things with each other and with the biosphere-the life supporting regions of the earth. Although these elements have always been interconnected, the importance and awareness of interdependence has increased dramatically since 1945. This is largely the result of a shrinking world into a "global village." The world is not contracting physically, but huge population increases have meant there is less living space. In addition, the technology of communication has decreased travel time and created  "real time"  radio, television and telephone, making once distant places accessible to all. Moreover, with the advent of nuclear missiles and weapons of mass destruction, national boundaries no longer stand as barriers to the outside world.

    The implications of interdependence can be positive, negative, or both. Greater political interdependence after World War II resulted in the power rivalries of the Cold War, yet it also led to the creation of the United Nations, an organization  committed to seeking peaceful solutions to world problems. Economic interdependence has resulted in trade blocs, such as OPEC, the European Union, and FTAA (Free Trade Agreement for the Americas) that often act to protect their own interests. Nevertheless, it has also produced GATT (General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade), the International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) and the World Bank which have attempted to harmonize trade and equalize economies.

    Interdependence has created many environmental problems such as acid rain and the destruction of the ozone layer. Yet it is only the cooperative spirit of interdependence that will help address these problems. Social interdependence can be seen in the growing range of social and cultural groups within modern societies. For the most part such groups strive to live in harmony, but because of the discrimination and disparity that exists there are many unresolved issues as well. Unresolved issues range from racism in everyday life, to genocide, to the foreign occupation of one people by another.

    Interdependence has many aspects. It exists whether we like it or not, but despite this we still have a choice in contributing positive changes to our world of interconnections.

Consider these questions as you explore in more depth the topic of interdependence.

• To what extent are political, economic, and social interdependence linked to one another?

• How effective have world organizations been in dealing with global concerns?

• What is the potential for disaster in the areas of political, economic, environmental and social interdependence?

• How can technology be used as a positive force for interdependence?

• What possibilities does interdependence offer for greater global justice?

Text adapted from:

Aliphat, Susan Viewpoints: An inquiry approach to world history since 1945  Prentice- Hall Canada. 1993. p.336-338.