Countries are becoming more and more similar because people are able to buy the same products anywhere in the world.
Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
Globalisation and the improvement in transportation means that it is possible to purchase the same brands wherever you are. Franchise stores are available worldwide, for example it is possible to buy an identical dress in Beijing, Cape Town and Berlin.
Unfortunately being identical means that a country loses its own distinct identity and what makes it different from all the others. Local products disappear from the market and are replaced by mass produced ones. This trend also means industries that used to produce traditional products shut down and all production takes place from a central location.
On a positive note this trend may eliminate differences and discrimination as it allows everyone equal opportunities to access products irrespective of where they come from. In this way they can keep up with international fashion and what is popular globally. For example, when the next leading mobile phone model comes into the market everyone will be able to own one by going to their local shopping centre. Manufacturers benefit from international sales and a single large market. This saving in costs might be passed onto the consumer in the form of lower costs.
I'm afraid that if we all own the same products, countries and consumers will no longer be unique. Although we might have cheaper products and our favourite brands are readily available, we stand to lose our multiculturalism, our individuality and our difference. If we all dress the same, eat the same food, drive the same cars, speak on the same phones etc the world will lose its charm.
Question taken from Cambridge IELTS 10 p.78
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