Emerging forms of globalization dialectics: 'Interlocalization,' a new praxis of power and culture in commercial media and development communication

This critical research seeks to better understand the hegemonic process of globalization. Due to power differences, globalization results in differential advantage and disadvantage for the involved cultures. The dialectical criticism of globalization aims to monitor social injustice and advances concepts on media homogenization, uneven information flow, and cultural imperialism. This interdisciplinary study explores the practices of globalization that are less culturally biased. Particularly, it makes a first intent to conceptualize a new globalization form, "interlocalization." Premised upon a competitive and free market system, the study explores the ways "interlocalization" might offer a more equitable relationship for the players of different cultures. Some "interlocalization" practices are also elaborated through two critical case studies. While studying forms of commercial minority media, the first case study examines the implications of "interlocalization" in the media expansion of a Catalan communication firm, Grupo Planeta. Based on the Roma projects of the Open Society Institute in Europe, the second case study presents a research on the role of "interlocalization" in social change. Analyzing cross-cultural participatory communication, this second study explores the use of "interlocalization" as tool in the creation of global practices for sustainable development. The overarching goal for this research is the advancement of equity and justice in media and development communication practices globally.