Convergence and Divergence in the Contemporary World System: An Introduction

An introduction to a special issue on, Convergence & Divergence in the Contemporary World System, highlights the debate over whether globalization leads to a convergence of societies toward like economic, political, & cultural organization or whether it produces greater divergence. Differences between global convergence & global divergence positions are explored, along with the alternative of glocalization, which suggests that western organizations & practices acquire different symbolic meanings in new local contexts. Although all of these positions offer important theoretical insights, it is argued that they should be combined into a more complex approach. Various types of cross-national convergence are examined & distinctions are made between one-side, two-sided, & unintended convergence. The results of diffusion research & four ideal-typical mechanisms of isomorphic social change are described. Consideration is given to several theoretical approaches that predict global isomorphism, global divergence, or the simultaneous occurrence of both. A theoretical synthesis that encompasses simultaneous but contradictory trends is offered to argue that global diffusion has been accompanied by an increase in income inequality which imperils the potential for a true world society. A brief synopsis of each article is included. References. J. Lindroth