The interface between globalization, trade and development: Theoretical issues for international business studies

Globalization, widely cited as the dominant international economic trend of the post-World War II era, is deeply connected with the opening of the world economy. The relationship between trade and growth has been intensively debated in the economic literature, within the fields of economics, sociology, political sciences, and others. However, in the areas of International Business (IB) and management studies, research about an integrated approach to the issues of globalization deserves further attention. In particular, in the 21st century, companies are being challenged to think differently about the purpose and societal impact of their activities on the poorest nations. Therefore, this paper addresses economic and social issues of accelerating globalization within a framework of IB and management studies.