Globalization or Americanization: Implication for Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Globalization has become a most used and most confused concept. There are varied interpretations as they are varied proponents. Consequently, the concept " globalization " requires deeper critical reflection to unravel its true essence. The paper aims at understanding the concept. We argue that Globalization is an ongoing process that is yet to be fully unraveled and understood. We posit that the world is currently experiencing Americanization. It is therefore inappropriate to construe the current worldwide economic attempt as already a globalized one. We attempt a distinction between globalization, Americanization and internationalization, and posit that though conceptionally distinct, they share in practice, the common aim to homogenize the globe. Furthermore, attempt is made to articulate this homogenization on the culture of sub-Saharan African nations like Nigeria. Finally, we make bold to argue that, globalization is an ill-wind and a threat to national culture – a recipe for cultural disaster. We argue that if we must globalize, it must be taken with " a pinch of salt " as it were or risk the loss of cultural identify of Nations.