S2 22
What is al Qaeda, wand why is it such a threat?
Al Qaeda is an Islamic fundamentalist group that has initiated repeated terrorist attacks against the US and its interests abroad. They were responsible for the September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center.
What are the main characteristics of economic interdependence?
Economic interdependence is the dependence of countries on one another resources, knowledge, and labor. It has increased with improvements in transportation and communications and the rise of free trade.
Summarize the benefits and costs of globalization.
Globalization has exposed people to new ideas and technologies. However, it may allow rich nations to exploit poorer nations, and it could lead to increased economic imbalances.
How has economic power in Asia shifted over the past couple of decades?
Japan's economy has slowed down, while China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea have had strong economic growth.
What are the major issues facing the world?
Major issues include the changing balance of economic and political power; globalization; global poverty, disease, and natural disaster; human rights; environmental issues; the world's stockpile of WMDs; terrorism; and the wise of use of technology.
What are the main causes of poverty?
National debts, lack of money to improve livings standards, political unrest, poor government planning, and rapid population growth.
Describe some of the environmental challenges of the 21st century.
Pollution, nuclear accidents, growing deserts, shrinking forests, and global warming
Why are nuclear weapons a particular problem in Russia?
Russia has lacked the money or the ability to dismantle or secure nuclear materials properly.
Describe the status of Russia and the United States after the end of the Cold War.
Since Russia no longer controlled Eastern Europe or the other former Soviet republics, the US became the world's sole superpower.
Summarize the impact of science and technology on modern life.
Space exploration has led to new knowledge and advances in communications technology. Computers link people to each other and to information, speeding up many business processes.