In the annals of history, civilizations rise and fall, but today we stand at the cusp of a monumental shift, witnessing the gradual transformation of the Global Industrialized Civilization into something new and profound. This civilization, born in the crucible of the industrial revolution, democratization, globalization, and colonialism, has left an indelible mark on the world since the early 1800s. However, as we navigate the digital age and grapple with the repercussions of our past, a renaissance of native cultures is taking place worldwide, leading to a resurgence of ancient pride and a profound search for identity.

Unraveling the Global Industrialized Civilization

The Global Industrialized Civilization emerged as a result of the Industrial Revolution, which forever altered the trajectory of human progress. The rise of mechanization, the spread of democracy, the forces of globalization, and the shadows of colonialism created a uniform Westernized civilization that touched every corner of the globe. Many native cultures, unable to resist the tidal wave of industrialization and capitalism, found their history, traditions, and ways of life eclipsed by the allure of modernity.

This era saw the dominance of industrialized nations, which wielded military and economic power over the rest of the world. As a consequence, numerous indigenous cultures were marginalized, subjugated, or even obliterated. It was a time when the supposed superiority of Western culture prevailed, and the cultures of less economically and militarily powerful regions were overshadowed.

Rediscovering Cultural Roots in the Digital Age

The digital revolution changed everything. With the advent of the internet, information flowed freely, transcending geographical boundaries. Young people, often the most tech-savvy among us, began to connect the dots of history, understanding the violence with which their cultures had been overthrown by colonial masters and religious waves.

As the world grappled with successive recessions, failed military operations, rising cultural debates, and a growing sense of uncertainty, a powerful shift took root. People across the globe began earnestly exploring their roots, seeking to understand their heritage and the origins of their ancestors. This soul-searching extended from India and China to Mexico, Latin American countries, African nations, South East Asia, and beyond. The supposed narratives of cultural inferiority and backwardness no longer held sway as they once did.

In the wake of this cultural awakening, there emerged a resurgence of right-wing politics worldwide. These movements sought to challenge the liberal politics that had its roots in the Industrial Age’s democratic ideals. The search for identity and cultural pride became a driving force, prompting many to reconnect with their roots and heritage.

Photo by Kolkatar Chobiwala: https://www.pexels.com/photo/saraswati-puja-15979133/

The Global South’s Ascent to Power and Influence

Today, the world is witnessing monumental debates and discoveries that are reshaping the global landscape. Over three centuries after colonial powers subjugated their colonies, they are finding it increasingly difficult to silence the voices of the Global South. The industrialized nations are now grappling with a growing need for support from these regions for their own survival.

Tensions between India and Canada serve as a poignant illustration of this shifting dynamic. Canada, once a huge power, finds itself unable to lecture India about the rule of law or Western supremacy. The winds of change are palpable, and the power balance is slowly tilting away from the Global North toward the Global South.

India, with its leadership role among Global South nations, stands as a beacon of originality, representing the attitudes and values of the Global South. Moreover, India’s political landscape appears to be evolving with stability and strength, navigating internal and external challenges with resilience.

As we look to the future, the path ahead is undeniably exciting. Technology, science, and research are no longer the exclusive domain of the West. The internet, with its universal accessibility, has democratized knowledge dissemination, and e-commerce is bridging the supply divide between urban and rural areas. The world is in a state of flux, with the Global South steadily gaining ground in terms of power, influence, and innovation.

The current era is one marked by profound change, as the Global South rises to prominence and challenges the status quo of the Global Industrialized Civilization. The world is witnessing a renaissance of cultures long suppressed, as individuals across the globe reconnect with their roots and heritage. This cultural awakening has given rise to political movements that oppose the established order, setting the stage for a new global paradigm.

The future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Global South is poised to play an increasingly influential role on the world stage. As we embark on this journey of transformation, it is essential to observe how the balance of power and influence between the Global North and the Global South evolves in the coming decades. The world as we know it is changing, and it promises to be an exciting and dynamic transition.