What does globalization refer to?

Globalization refers to the process of increasing integration and interdependence among countries and their economies. This concept encompasses the flow of goods, services, capital, and labor across borders, leading to a more interconnected global market. As globalization progresses, it fosters international trade, investment, and cultural exchange, allowing economies to grow more intertwined and dependent on one another.

The emphasis on integration highlights the ways in which globalization creates opportunities for countries to collaborate, share resources, and access new markets, which can enhance economic growth and improve living standards. It also underscores the importance of transnational interactions and cooperation in addressing global challenges like climate change, poverty, and health crises.

In contrast, the other options reflect ideas that oppose or do not align with the concept of globalization. For instance, isolation of national economies suggests a movement away from integration, indicating a preference for self-sufficiency and a lack of international interaction. Similarly, dependence on local markets and a reduction in international trade imply a focus on domestic rather than global engagement, directly contradicting the essence of globalization.