Globalization refers to the increasing interdependence of national economies through trade, investment, and communication across borders. It has been driven by improvements in communication, transport, free trade agreements, global banking, and the growth of multinational corporations. While globalization can increase economic growth through free trade and reduced cultural barriers, it also has disadvantages like infringing on national issues, decreasing environmental protections as corporations seek out cheap labor abroad, and disrupting economies through spread of economic impacts and diseases between nations. Overall, globalization is an ongoing process that countries must learn to benefit from while minimizing costs and spreading opportunities widely.