This companion features original essays on the complexity of globalization and its diverse and sometimes conflicting effects. Written by top scholars in the field, it offers a nuanced and detailed examination of globalization that includes both positive and critical evaluations. * Introduces the major players, theories, and methodologies * Explores the major areas of impact, including the environment, cities, outsourcing, consumerism, global media, politics, religion, and public health * Addresses the foremost concerns of global inequality, corruption, international terrorism, war, and the future of globalization * Wide-ranging and comprehensive, an excellent text for undergraduate and graduate students in a range of disciplines