The document explores the contemporary world, emphasizing its definitions, key characteristics, and challenges. It highlights globalization, technological advancements, and shifting power dynamics, while identifying pressing issues such as climate change, inequality, and ethical concerns surrounding new technologies. Additionally, it addresses the complexities of geopolitical tensions and security challenges in the current global landscape.

1. Hermenio Jr. B. Cabusog, MM, MA
GE 103: Contemporary World
Contemporary World
Defined

2. Defined by
Time
Period
Key
Characteristics
Challenges
and
Opportunities

3. By Time Period
Narrow Definition Focusing on the present time and recent
past. This could mean roughly the 21st
century or even the period since the fall of
the Soviet Union in 1991.
Broader Definition Encompassing the last half of the 20th
century and onward, recognizing the
significance of earlier events that shaped
the current world.

4. Key Characteristics
Globalization populations through trade, technology, and information
flow
interconnectedness of economies
Individualism
Emergence of
new powers
Technological
advancements
Sociocultural
trends
cultures
Artificial intelligence
Robotics
Communication
global political and economic leadership
rise of non-Western countries
changing power dynamics
environmentalism
shifting societal values
demographic changes

5. The Key Challenges
Climate change and
environmental
degradation:
Pressing concerns
demanding global
cooperation and
innovative solutions.
Inequality and
poverty:
Persistent issues despite
economic
growth, highlighting the
need for equitable
development.
Rise of new technologies and
ethical considerations:
Balancing the benefits of
AI, automation, and data with their
potential downsides
Challenges to global
stability and security
amidst complex
rivalries and
ideologies.
Geopolitical
tensions and
conflicts: