“Lexus and Olive Tree” in New Perspective

Abstract

Today’s globalization is succinctly characterized by Thomas Friedman in his book,“The Lexus and the Olive Tree.”Friedman claimed that globalization heightens two basic human desires; namely, the desire for better living（Lexus）, and the desire for humanitarian bond（olive tree）. He claimed that sustainable globalization depends on realizing the society that can balance those two human desires. In view of growing anti-globalization movements, including terrorism, this study questions the wisdom of Friedman, and reflects on yester-years’globalization for clues on the present situation. The study identifies a few contradictions inherent in today’s globalization, and elucidates their destabilizing effects on human society. In conclusion the study attributes destabilization to the lack of development in the social compact that can harness capitalistic excesses and ameliorate the growing inconsistency between global economy and global polity.