Throughout the history of the human race, there has always been an "us vs. them" mentality, motivating our desire and need to be part of a particular group. What pushes us to belong to one group or another? Will there ever be a time when our similarity will outweigh our few differences? Is globalization the answer to all our problems? The things that separate us from “them” may or may not be something we can change, but even with the global progress that has been made, the divide clearly remains. The term globalization is relatively new, but its definition is profound. Globalization can refer to the integration of cultures, international business and economic practices, or even politics; It’s a word of all trades. Never has a word managed to cross so many different parts of daily life. That's why it's so important. But does this really affect who “we” are – who “they” are? Of course, whether we want to admit it or not. Advances in air and high-speed rail travel, coupled with increased communication capabilities (Internet, telephone, social media), have dramatically improved the way people can connect with others around the world. Today, people can experience different parts of the world by picking up their phone, turning on their computer, or even flying across the ocean with relative ease to expand their own “inner circle.” Companies do business all over the world to save on production costs and increase revenue. Top politicians in the United States attempt to work with politicians from different countries to improve international relations, tackle global issues, and collaborate on different ideas. When we make these kinds of connections, we are in the middle of paper... Its culture and ideas will not be easy. Appiah argues that even understanding another's culture can be difficult, much less trying to agree with it (658). However, it can be possible if we demonstrate openness and willingness to listen and learn about another culture. Understanding the history of customs and traditions can help many people make sense of a strange idea. The “us versus them” mentality will probably never go away completely, but it might be possible to make the lines less deliberate. Globalization allows ideas to cross borders every day, but it will one day completely bridge the “us versus them” divide. them"? Do we really want to bridge this divide and reject everything that makes different cultures unique? Only time will answer these questions but until then, the divide will remain visible, even if the lines become blurred..