The document discusses different perspectives on globalization and whether the world is truly "flat" as Thomas Friedman argues. While some like Steven Roach see growing disparities between nations, Richard Florida contends the world is "spiky" with uneven economic activity concentrated in certain areas. The document also examines concepts like value chains, cultural landscapes, diasporic communities, and whether territorial systems will become obsolete given globalizing forces. National governments may still play a role in reducing inequalities and examples of coping strategies include promoting inward investment and raising workforce skills.

1. Y376 International Political Economy November 5, 2009

4. Spikiness in Economic Activity in the United States

5. Spikiness in Economic Activity in China

6. Spikiness in Scientific Citations http://creativeclass.com/rfcgdb/articles/other-2005-The%20World%20is%20Spiky.pdf