Globalization and Transnationalization

Abstract

Interest in globalization has gained considerable momentum since the 1980s and has prompted fundamental debates in the field of sociology. Nonetheless, sociology has remained nationally framed. Today, the notion that transborder phenomena and perspectives are valid is widely accepted. German-speaking authors have undertaken collective efforts towards more precise theories of globalization and transnationalism: Migration scholars, for instance, have proposedmiddle-range theories of transnational social space built on empirical research. The Luhmannian school of systems theory has translated a comprehensive theoretical program into research on the diffusion of global standards. Internationally prevalent theoretical approaches, such as postcolonial studies, have inspired research on a broad variety of topics ranging from the global division of labor to the cultural aspects of globalization. And finally, as far as methodology is concerned, country comparisons and qualitative case studies are the most common but are being complemented by innovative approaches.