Quick questions on Roles in responding to globalisation: N(A)-Level Social Studies responses

The government leads the response to globalisation because it has the resources, power and reach to act for the whole country. It makes economic policy, runs retraining and skills schemes, keeps the economy competitive, protects local culture and heritage, passes laws, builds security and health systems, and cooperates with other countries. These are large-scale responses that only the government can make. So the government sets the direction and provides the framework within which individuals respond.

Individuals respond to globalisation by adapting in their own lives. Workers upgrade their skills and stay flexible so they can move into new jobs as the economy changes. People stay open to global culture while keeping their own traditions alive, and pass these on to their families. Citizens stay vigilant against security threats, follow safety measures, and avoid spreading rumours.

Responding to globalisation is therefore a shared responsibility. The government leads because of its power and reach, but it cannot succeed without individuals responding too. This is similar to building social cohesion, where the government sets the conditions and citizens bring them to life. Seeing the response as a partnership avoids two mistakes: expecting the government to do everything, and expecting individuals to cope alone.

When asked how far, weigh both sides and reach a balanced verdict.

Use examples such as retraining schemes plus workers retraining, or security measures plus public vigilance.

State one response to globalisation that only the government can make, and one that individuals must make. [2 marks]

Explain why government policies to respond to globalisation may fail without individuals. [3 marks]

Explain why responding to globalisation is best seen as a shared responsibility. [3 marks]