The Globalization Reader, 5th Edition, edited by Lechner, offers a comprehensive exploration of globalization’s complexities and controversies. This thoroughly revised and updated edition delves into key topics and recent research in the field, providing readers with an in-depth understanding of contemporary issues. A new section on globalization and identity is included alongside fresh readings on global inequality, mental illness, structural violence, microfinance, blood diamonds, world citizenship, the global justice movement, and even sumo wrestling, offering a diverse range of perspectives.

The book compiles essential, thought-provoking contributions from prominent scholars, activists, and organizations, covering numerous dimensions of globalization. It examines foundational topics such as the experience of globalization, economic and political globalization, media and religion in cultural globalization, women’s rights, environmentalism, global civil society, and the alternative globalization movement. These readings are accompanied by concise introductions to major topics, stimulating examples, and discussion questions for each selection and section, making it an invaluable resource for students and educators alike.

With a print length of 623 pages, this edition measures 6.63 x 1.41 x 9.63 inches and is identified by the ISBN-10: 111873355X and ISBN-13: 978-1118733554. It was published on December 5, 2014.