Globalization and Westernization

Referring to Professor Christopher Lingle's article entitled RI and globalization debate: Embracing 'contract culture', which appeared at The Jakarta Post on Dec. 28, I am impressed by the articulation and clarity of his debate on the issue of globalization and its impact. However, I disagree with his statement that we must not confuse globalization with "Westernization".

Our trade agreements are based on Western and American free market economic policies, which has led to a massive extraction of natural resources from Indonesia, which in turn has decreased Indonesia's sustainability. Fair trade is a question that remains unanswered.

Therefore shared prosperity cannot possibly be "equal". I would like very much for Prof. Lingle explain to me how globalization and Westernization can be considered separate entities, since most economic development in South East Asia is based on both Western and American economic theory and practice. Capitalism or free market economies should not be assessed only for their successes, but also for their failures.

IDA RASTINI Sanur, Bali