Globalization is the process by which regional economies, societies, and cultures are being integrated through a network of communication, transportation, and trade. It is how society, particularly our economies, works today. However, what some people may not know is that social media plays a key factor in our globalized world.

The news networks and Facebook are two of the primary examples of social media that has an effect on globalization. Because of how integrated the world’s capitalistic economies are with one another, the news networks keep us informed on international problems. This means that if something happens in Japan, those in Russia, America, Brazil, and so on are going to know about it.

Now, the news networks used to be the top media outlets for globalization, but recently a new frontrunner has emerged: Facebook. Facebook has become the poster child for social media, not only for advertising and social advantages, but also for global news. The earthquake in Virginia in August of 2011 is an excellent example.

Almost the second after it was over, Facebook exploded about it; within the hour everyone in the northeastern United States knew about it; within two hours the whole United States knew; and within four hours, the whole world knew about it. All of this was because of Facebook, the new frontrunner in social media and globalization.

Due to this new shift of power, businesses are now focusing their advertisements on Facebook. Nearly 1 out of 13 people have a Facebook account. This means that the businesses who advertise on Facebook will have a significantly bigger target market looking at their products; they now have a better chance of expanding and thriving in today’s economy.

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